Miami Heat President Pat Riley addressed recent events concerning Jimmy Butler during his end-of-year press conference, providing insights into the team’s future and his personal reflections. This was his first public comments since Butler’s midseason trade to the Golden State Warriors, back in February. It followed a tumultuous season for Butler, who was forced to navigate four suspensions.
After the press conference wrapped, Riley wasn’t happy to hear a specific remark made on Butler. He wouldn’t get into any possible long-term Miami hard feelings. “I’m not going to apologize for saying no on a contract extension when we didn’t have to,” he stated, highlighting his stance on the situation.
Riley acknowledged the profound impact Butler’s absence had on the team, stating, “There’s no doubt that what happened with Jimmy had a tremendous impact on our team.” After a tumultuous season, the Heat finished 10th in the East. Despite those woes, they still qualified for the playoffs as the No. 8 seed after winning the play-in tournament. Injury, indeed, they were eventually swept by the Cleveland Cavaliers, losing by particularly lopsided scores in their final two games.
Looking back on Butler’s move, Riley shared a genuine feeling of happiness for the former Heat great. “I wish him well, good luck to him, and I hope deep down in his heart somewhere he wishes us well too,” he remarked. This sentiment highlights the mutual respect between Butler and the city of Philadelphia that remains, even as the city mourns Butler’s sudden exit.
On a personal note, Riley recently celebrated his 80th birthday. “I just turned 80, and I’m proud of it and 80 is the new 60,” he quipped, demonstrating his unwavering passion for the game and commitment to the team. As long as he remains committed to improving the Heat’s roster. He’s making a clear public statement that he doesn’t intend to “run it back” with the same roster in future season.
Riley has reportedly already made direct contact with managing general partner Micky Arison. He’s talked internally too, including with team CEO Nick Arison. Both have goaded him into making trades this summer, showing a willingness to get aggressive to re-tool the team’s core. During a recent Formula 1 race in South Florida, Riley made an off-the-cuff remark about Butler’s potential impact on the playoffs, suggesting that with Butler healthy, the Heat could have outperformed teams like the Celtics or New York Knicks.
As the Miami Heat look ahead to next season, Riley’s comments reflect a mix of nostalgia for past achievements and anticipation for future possibilities. He maintains a photo of Butler in his office from Game 5 of the 2020 NBA Finals, a visual reminder of the team’s journey and challenges.
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