As a result of they’ve rated second defensively (108.6 factors per possessions) since Butler’s first sport in royal blue and gold, the Warriors are poised to reply Tuesday in Miami as long as they defend with extra effort and cohesion. Kerr is anticipating a “nice ambiance. You lose a sport like this, you’ve received to reply, particularly with the place we’re within the playoff image.” Butler starred five-plus seasons for Miami and twice led the Warmth to the NBA Finals. His midseason commerce request, granted final month, revitalized Golden State’s once-wayward season. Inexperienced stated “it’s a giant sport” for Butler and Warriors-turned-Warmth wing Andrew Wiggins. “Identical to we need to win for Jimmy, they need to win for Wiggs,” Inexperienced stated. “We’ve received to come back out able to play.” Butler said the matchup is “going to be another game for me. Another game we’re expected to win, for sure so we’ve got to figure it out and figure it out very quickly. … It doesn’t make any difference (how I’m received). I’m a member of the Golden State Warriors. I like that fan base … however I’m there to win now. I’m on the opposing workforce.” -via San Francisco Chronicle / March 23, 2025