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Golden State Warriors
Aug 15, 2025 3:56 PM EDT
Jimmy Butler’s departure from the Miami Heat in February marked one of the most dramatic player exits in recent memory. The six-time All-Star forced his way out of South Beach, ultimately landing with the Golden State Warriors via trade. Shortly after, Butler signed a two-year, $112m extension to stay with the franchise through 2026-27, joining forces with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green to form one of the league’s most experienced veteran cores.
Butler’s split from the Heat not only reshaped Miami’s roster but also triggered a series of financial and roster decisions as the team pivoted toward a leaner payroll. That trend continued again on Friday following the latest Heat trade.
Draymond Green Blames Jimmy Butler For Heat Trade
On Friday, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the Heat traded Haywood Highsmith and a 2032 second-round pick to the Brooklyn Nets for a protected 2026 second-round selection. The move is part of Miami’s effort to keep costs down while repositioning the team for the future after losing Butler, who had been central to their playoff runs in recent years.
Shortly after the news broke, Draymond Green reacted to the Highsmith trade by reposting Shams Charania’s report on Instagram with the caption: “look what you’ve done Jimbo @jimmybutler.”
Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) reacts to Miami Heat trade — Source: Instagram / money23green
The post appeared to be in jest, but it also acknowledged the ripple effects of Butler’s departure from Miami.
Butler and Highsmith were teammates for four years, and the latter’s trade is another sign of the franchise’s pivot since Butler’s exit. The deal helps Miami remain about $4 million under the luxury tax threshold and $9.5 million below the first apron hard cap. Brooklyn, meanwhile, used its remaining significant cap space to take on Highsmith and has now added two first-round picks this offseason, giving it the league’s largest stash of future first- and second-round selections.
Jimmy Butler Preparing for First Full Season With Warriors
Butler has already made an impact in Golden State, bolstering the Warriors’ defense and bringing added playoff experience alongside Curry and Green. His veteran presence contributed to a strong 23-7 finish last season that secured the team a playoff spot.
Now preparing for his first full season with the Warriors, Butler is expected to be both a defensive anchor and a secondary playmaker in a Western Conference that is even deeper than last year. For Golden State, his addition could be critical in extending their championship window and giving the franchise another shot at a deep postseason run.
About the Author
Ayomide Adeduyite
Trending News Writer, Athlon Sports
Ayomide Adeduyite is a contributing writer for the Athlon Sports trending and breaking news team.