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MIAMI, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 27:  Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat poses for a photo with president Pat Riley during his introductory press conference at American Airlines Arena on September 27, 2019 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 27: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat poses for a photo with president Pat Riley during his introductory press conference at American Airlines Arena on September 27, 2019 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)Michael Reaves/Getty Images

Report: Jimmy Butler Felt Pat Riley's Behavior Was 'Unhinged' During Heat Trade Saga

Mike ChiariFeb 7, 2025

Jimmy Butler's interpretation of Miami Heat team president Pat Riley's actions during a Jan. 7 meeting reportedly sealed the disgruntled star's decision to find a way out of South Florida.

According to James Jackson, Sam Amick and Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic, Butler did not react well to Riley becoming emotional and tearing up when talking to Butler about the death of his father, which occurred last year.

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Riley's father died when the Basketball Hall of Famer was 25, and while he attempted to connect with Butler on that common ground, Butler reportedly felt Riley came across as "unhinged and disturbing."

The Heat ultimately found a trade partner this week, sending Butler to the Golden State Warriors as part of a multi-team deal that landed them Andrew Wiggins, Kyle Anderson and a top-10-protected 2025 first-round pick.


This article will be updated soon to provide more information and analysis.

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