Is it possible Jimmy Butler could have been a member of the Los Angeles Lakers, rather than preparing to face off against LeBron James and Co. in the NBA Finals?
Not according to Butler, who said he “didn't consider” going to Los Angeles, per Tim Bontemps of ESPN. Butler also reiterated the idea he knew Miami was the best fit as soon as he met with head coach Erik Spoelstra and Pat Riley.
This comes after a rumor came out suggesting the Lakers discussed chasing Butler after the Anthony Davis trade. Clearly, nothing happened there, and Los Angeles missed out on Kawhi Leonard before ultimately filling out the roster with role players.
Meanwhile, Jimmy Butler has indeed been the perfect fit in South Beach.
The 31-year-old was named to his fifth All-Star Game, taking up his mantle as Miami's top playmaker and scoring option while also being the leader Spoelstra and Riley so desperately needed at the helm.
The Heat have taken their play to a new level in Orlando.
Butler has been excellent in the playoffs, averaging 20.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 1.9 steals while consistently getting to the free-throw line. But Butler's teammates have also elevated their level of play.
Goran Dragic has been spectacular in the bubble, forming a lethal pick-and-roll tandem with Bam Adebayo. Meanwhile, rookie Tyler Herro has become a terrific offensive playmaker and shotmaker.
Speaking of Adebayo, the first-time All-Star continues to prove why he's one of the best bigs in basketball on both ends of the floor. Adebayo averaged 21.8 points, 11.0 rebounds, 5.2 assists, 1.7 steals and a block against the Boston Celtics, and the Heat hope he can help contain Lakers star Anthony Davis.
Ultimately, however, it is Jimmy Butler's tenacity and competitiveness that defines this Miami team. Now, Butler and the Heat will attempt to cap off their Cinderella run by beating the Lakers in the Finals.
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