The Miami Heat traded Haywood Highsmith to the Brooklyn Nets on Friday in what was primarily a salary dump, exchanging Highsmith and their 2032 second-round pick for a protected 2026 second-round pick from the Nets. This move triggered a humorous exchange between Golden State Warriors’ Draymond Green and former Heat star Jimmy Butler, with Green attributing the trade to Butler and Butler denying any involvement.
Following the trade announcement, Draymond Green publicly pointed fingers at Jimmy Butler, his teammate and ex-Heat player, for the decision. Butler responded quickly with a light-hearted reply denying any responsibility.
Don’t put that evil on me, Ricky Bobby! I had nothing to do with it! Let me live my offseason with my blonde weave in.
—Jimmy Butler
Why Draymond Green Blames Jimmy Butler for the Trade
Draymond Green’s comments left many wondering about the exact reason behind his blame. It appears he may be linking Butler to the Heat’s cost-saving push following Butler’s departure earlier this year. Before the trade, Miami was about $1.4 million over the luxury tax threshold but moved to roughly $4 million under it after the deal, indicating a significant financial reshuffle possibly motivated by Butler’s exit.
Another factor could be Butler’s controversial final act with the Heat. In January, reports from <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA insider Shams Charania revealed that Butler abruptly left a team shootaround after learning he would no longer start, with Highsmith taking his place. This act led to an indefinite suspension by Miami, the third suspension Butler received that month. Subsequently, the Heat traded Butler to the Warriors in exchange for Andrew Wiggins and other assets.
Impact of the Trades on Both Teams’ Performance
The Warriors took a risk acquiring Butler, but the trade has clearly favored Golden State. Miami struggled after Butler’s departure, ending the season with a disappointing 37-45 record. Although they managed to reach the playoffs via the play-in tournament, they were swept by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round.
Conversely, the Warriors’ performance improved significantly with Butler on their roster. They won 23 of 30 games with him playing and secured the seventh seed in the Western Conference with a 48-34 regular-season record. After defeating the Houston Rockets in the first round, the Warriors fell to the Minnesota Timberwolves in five games during the Conference Semifinals.
Injuries played a critical role during this playoff run. Stephen Curry suffered a hamstring strain in Game 1, and Butler appeared to be limited by a pelvis injury. These injuries fueled debate about how the series may have unfolded had the Warriors been healthier.
Looking Ahead to the Warriors’ Future Postseason Prospects
Despite the setbacks, the Warriors appear poised for a strong next season. Uniquely, they have not yet made any roster changes this offseason, which may eventually evolve. Jimmy Butler remains optimistic about the team’s prospects, confident they can contend in the 2026 postseason if injuries are avoided.
While a championship might be a stretch, the combination of Curry and Butler keeps the Warriors in the conversation as potential contenders. Their presence ensures that Golden State will remain a team to watch.