Jimmy Butler is a great NBA player. However, his history of clashes with coaches, teammates, and others hasn’t helped him much. This year was no exception, as he became a major headache for the Miami Heat, to the point that his six-year contract ended.
Goran Dragic, an NBA legend who played with Butler, shared his thoughts about his former teammate, who now calls the Golden State Warriors home. Will the same story of drama, disputes, and conflicts repeat itself there?
Talent overshadowed by unwanted behavior
According to The Sports Rush, the four teams Butler played for before the Warriors all reached the NBA Finals. That made him extremely valuable, but his behavior continues to overshadow his talent. In fact, before leaving Miami, he missed 9 of 12 games due to suspension.
Media Day in Miami was always something else with Jimmy Butler around… pic.twitter.com/Iw71tQx1hw
— NBA UK (@NBAUK) September 7, 2025
On the 104.3 WQAM podcast, Goran Dragic revealed what was happening inside the Miami Heat locker room. When asked if the Heat players might feel some relief without Butler’s issues, he answered:
“I really think they can because it’s really hard to play when you have drama around you. The situation with Jimmy last year didn’t help anyone. It didn’t help Jimmy, it didn’t help the team.”
A calmer season ahead for Miami
Contrary to expectations, Dragic stressed that such situations hurt the team’s performance. He added: “I definitely think this year there will be more calm. Spo [Erik Spoelstra] will be more relaxed, the coach will be more relaxed. They’ll have time to prepare the team. When you’re calm, you perform better.”
In Butler’s absence, Bam Adebayo will likely emerge as the Heat’s main figure. At the same time, many expect Tyler Herro to become the top scorer, as he has all the potential to do so. Fans also hope the team will build a strong strategy for the upcoming NBA season.
