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Just a few hours after free agency officially began, there were reports that Jimmy Butler was no longer going to stay with the Philadelphia 76ers. They turned out to be true, as the All-Star forward was traded to the Miami Heat in a complicated deal that almost fell apart because the Dallas Mavericks backed out. Fortunately, the Sixers and Heat were able to complete everything with the help of the Los Angeles Clippers and the Portland Trail Blazers.
Long story short, Jimmy Butler is now a member of the Heat, and he has the support of Dwyane Wade. There's a lot of expectations for him in South Beach, and given the fact that he didn't bring a co-star with him, he's definitely going to be the face of that franchise over the next four years.
Yes, Butler had better opportunities and offers elsewhere. In fact, the Sixers offered him a five-year deal, which he obviously rejected. The Los Angeles teams have also expressed interest in signing him, but Jimmy had no intention in going to either the Lakers or the Clippers. His decision to take his talents to Miami is motivated by the desire to be recognized as one of the best players in the league once again.
So what are the realistic expectations for Mr. Jimmy Buckets in his first season with the Heat?
He will lead the Heat (barely) into the playoffs
In case anyone has forgotten, Butler is one of the best small forwards in the league. He's arguably in the top five position-wise behind LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard, Kevin Durant, and Paul George. He's in his prime, and he averaged 18-5-4 in a stacked 76ers team last season.
Imagine what he can do for the Heat.
Yes, the Heat aren't good, but with Butler on board, they are decent enough to make the playoffs in the East. It wouldn't be a surprise to see him put up 27 points, seven rebounds, and five assists next season, which brings us to our next point.
He will be an MVP candidate
Now, before your eyes grow wider, no one said Butler's going to win. But again, he's on a team that has no other star beside him, so he will definitely put up impressive numbers on a nightly basis. Remember, this is the player who went toe-to-toe with Kawhi Leonard in last season's playoffs, which speaks volumes about how good he is. Now, he will have to compete with Giannis Antetokounmpo, James Harden, and even Paul George, but Jimmy will certainly be able to stand his ground against those three next season.
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He will clash with teammates and coaches again
Are you surprised? That happened with the Chicago Bulls, Minnesota Timberwolves, and most recently, with the 76ers. Butler has made a reputation as someone who is difficult to coach, hates a lack of effort from youngsters, and isn't afraid to confront anyone. Miami is expected to lose a lot of games next season, and that might not sit well with Jimmy.
Let's face it, as talented as Butler is, his emotions often get the best of him.
However, if he tempers his expectations heading into next season and can work well with his teammates, who knows? Butler might have a peaceful 2019-20 campaign.
Moreover, he will be in a first-class organization in Miami. If he will have a problem during the regular season, he can definitely share it with team president Pat Riley. Jimmy can't just throw his weight around, especially since he has yet to prove his worth to the franchise.
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Did Butler make the right decision in joining the Heat? That remains to be seen. Again, he's one heck of a talent and Miami is fortunate enough to acquire him. However, success is more than just about talent, especially in basketball. It is a step-by-step procedure that requires cooperation from everyone on the team.
Butler is no longer with the 76ers, but he still needs to trust the process in Miami.
