Jimmy Butler Traded to Warriors in Blockbuster Deal – Signs New $111M Contract
The Miami Heat have officially parted ways with star player Jimmy Butler, trading him to the Golden State Warriors in a multi-team blockbuster trade. This move marks the end of Butler’s tenure in Miami and signals a fresh start for both parties. According to sources, Butler will decline his $52 million player option and instead sign a two-year, $111 million deal, securing his spot with the Warriors through the 2026-27 NBA season.
How the Trade Unfolded
The Warriors, initially in talks to re-acquire Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns, pivoted to securing Butler after Durant declined a return to Golden State. Negotiations between the Warriors, Heat, and Suns nearly sent Butler to Phoenix and Durant back to his championship-winning franchise, but the deal ultimately fell through.
Trade Details
- Golden State Warriors Receive: Jimmy Butler
- Miami Heat Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Kyle Anderson, top-10 protected 2025 first-round pick
- Utah Jazz Receive: Dennis Schroder (via Warriors)
- Detroit Pistons Receive: Lindy Waters III (via Warriors) and Josh Richardson (via Heat)
- Miami Heat Also Acquire: P.J. Tucker (from Utah)
This deal significantly reshapes all involved teams, especially the Warriors, who were actively searching for another star to complement Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.
Warriors Secure a Proven Star
The Warriors have long sought a dependable second scorer to relieve Curry, particularly in clutch moments. Butler, a six-time All-Star, has consistently averaged 20+ points per season over the last four years, making him a valuable addition. His defensive prowess, combined with Draymond Green, will form a formidable duo under coach Steve Kerr.
Stephen Curry expressed his excitement about the new acquisition, stating, “We know who Jimmy is. He’s a winner. I expect a motivated and committed Butler who will elevate our team.” The Warriors, sitting at 10th place in the Western Conference before the trade, are hoping Butler’s arrival will boost their playoff aspirations.
Emotional Farewells in Miami and Golden State
For Miami, Butler’s departure is bittersweet. Heat forward Nikola Jovic described Butler as a mentor, saying, “He’s someone who helped me so much. I’m sad to see him go, but happy that he got what he wanted.”
Similarly, Warriors coach Steve Kerr praised Andrew Wiggins, acknowledging his role in Golden State’s 2022 championship run. “Wiggs is one of my favorite players I’ve ever coached. We don’t hang that banner without him,” Kerr stated.
Butler’s Rocky Relationship with the Heat
Despite leading the Heat to two NBA Finals appearances and multiple deep playoff runs, Butler’s final season in Miami was tumultuous. The Heat suspended him three times, citing conduct detrimental to the team. His most recent suspension stemmed from missing a team flight and leaving shootaround abruptly after being benched. Miami’s reluctance to extend his contract further fueled speculation of an impending split.
Warriors’ Championship Odds Improve
Following the trade, betting odds for the Warriors’ championship hopes have improved. According to ESPN BET:
- NBA Title Odds: +4000 → +3300
- Western Conference Title Odds: +3000 → +2000
- Pacific Division Odds: +1800 → +1200
With Butler now in the mix, Golden State hopes to reclaim its position among the league’s elite.
Looking Ahead: Butler’s Return to Miami
Mark your calendars—Jimmy Butler will make his return to Miami on March 25, when the Warriors face the Heat in what is expected to be a highly charged matchup. With this trade officially in the books, fans are eager to see how Butler’s next chapter unfolds in Golden State.