With a strong defensive showing, allowing just 108.6 points per possession since Butler joined them in his royal blue and gold attire, the Warriors are ready to make waves in Miami on Tuesday. The key will be matching that defensive prowess with heightened effort and teamwork. Coach Kerr anticipates the game to boast a “great atmosphere,” emphasizing the importance of bouncing back after a tough loss, especially given their current standing in the playoff race.
Butler, who spent over five impactful seasons with Miami and helped guide the Heat to the NBA Finals twice, breathed new life into the Warriors’ previously derailed season with his recent trade. Green recognized the significance of the upcoming match for both Butler and Andrew Wiggins, who switched allegiances from the Warriors to the Heat. “It’s a major game,” Green remarked, “just like we’re eager to clinch a win for Jimmy, they’re aiming to secure one for Wiggs. We need to be prepared to give it our all.”
For Butler, the upcoming clash holds a practical sense of urgency rather than emotional. “It’s just another game,” he explained. “Definitely one we need to win, so we have to sort things out—and swiftly. How I’m perceived doesn’t change anything. My commitment now lies with the Golden State Warriors. I cherish their fan base, but at the end of the day, my focus is on triumphing as a Warrior.”
