The Miami Heat and Jimmy Butler have had a falling out, and all indications are that the relationship could be beyond repair. A new piece by ESPN's Ramona Shelburne explains how things got to this uncomfortable place. At one point she cites Pat Riley and the team's brain trust's attempt to find a new leader after Udonis Haslem departed before the 2023-24 season and their decision to land on Bam Adebayo.
Butler, who had just completed his fourth season in Miami and led the team to two NBA Finals, wasn't upset by this choice, sources close to him said, but it did serve as validation. He might be the Heat's best player, but it wasn't truly his team. Adebayo and young guard Tyler Herro were the Heat's future, not him.
