Heat dominate Warriors as Butler struggles on Miami return
The Miami Heat handed Jimmy Butler a humbling defeat in his return to South Florida, cruising past the Golden State Warriors 112-86 on Tuesday.
Butler, facing his former team for the first time since his controversial trade to Golden State in February, endured a quiet night with just 11 points as the Warriors struggled offensively. Miami, in contrast, controlled the game from the start and never trailed.
Despite a video tribute before tip-off, Butler received a mixed reception from the crowd at Kaseya Center. However, the 34-year-old insisted there was no lingering resentment over his exit.
“This was a huge part of my career, so I continue to say that I’m very grateful,” Butler said. “I ain’t spiteful towards nobody.”
Heat coach Erik Spoelstra dismissed the idea that Butler’s return served as extra motivation.
“The energy in the building was great,” Spoelstra said. “We didn’t do any extra motivational speech—just focused on our process.”
Warriors coach Steve Kerr credited Miami’s effort.
“The main part of Jimmy’s return is that the Heat were ready,” Kerr said. “And Spo had them ready. They took it to us.”
The win keeps Miami (31-41) in 10th place in the East and on track for the play-in tournament, while Golden State (41-31) remains sixth in the West.
Thunder, Cavaliers extend winning streaks
Elsewhere, the Oklahoma City Thunder secured their seventh straight win, defeating the Sacramento Kings 121-105. MVP contender Shai Gilgeous-Alexander starred with 32 points, seven rebounds, and five assists as the Thunder reached 60 wins for the season.
“It’s a testament to our hard work,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “There’s a lot more work to be done. We haven’t achieved half of our goals yet.”
In the East, the Cleveland Cavaliers maintained their grip on first place with a 122-111 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers, improving to 58-14.
(Source: AFP)
