Jimmy Butler Shades Heat Amid NBA Playoffs

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kevin Borba | Last updated Apr 30, 2025 10:59 AM ET

Jimmy Butler returned from injury to inspire the Warriors to a thrilling 109-106 win over the Rockets, putting them 3-1 up in the series.

After missing Game 3 with a pelvic contusion, Butler’s return was electric, and his post-game message to the locker room was just as powerful. He had some heartfelt words for his teammates, but also took the chance to take a sly dig at his former team, the Miami Heat.

Right after the Warriors’ Game 4 win, Butler told TNT’s Allie LaForce how much playing in the Bay has revived his spirit.

"It means the world," Butler said. "I'd die for these guys, for real. It's so fun. I've got my joy back."

Things couldn’t be more different for Butler now as he’s thriving with the Warriors, after a rough ending in Miami. Butler delivered an efficient, composed showing, scoring 27 points on 7-of-12 shooting (58.3%). He also hit 1-of-2 from deep, finishing at 50% from three.

Besides getting his name on the score-sheet, Butler finished the match with five rebounds, half a dozen assists, and a block. Though he could not get a steal, he carried out his defensive responsibilities throughout the game. Overall, this was an all-around performance.

At first, there were concerns about how Butler would fit into the Warriors’ star-studded lineup. It turns out he’s made himself right at home, filling the role the team needed, alongside the likes of Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.

During his Miami tenure, Butler admitted he’d lost his joy for basketball, even declaring that it would never come back if he stayed with the Heat. Now, playing for the Warriors, he has rediscovered it—and made sure to share that with reporters after the game.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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