Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra is aware that his relationship with small forward Jimmy Butler “is the most important one in this building.”

Butler is the highest-paid and best player on the Heat. For Miami to get back to the playoffs this season, Butler and Spoelstra have to be on the same page.

“It’s not going be there right now. That’s not even realistic. But this relationship between our highest-paid player and the head coach is the most important one in this building,” Spoelstra told Shandel Richardson of The Athletic. “He understands that clearly. As we move forward, our collaboration hopefully can impact and help our entire locker room get on the same page and get to the ultimate goal we’re trying to get to. That’s all that matters right now.”

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Jimmy Butler never got along with head coach Fred Hoiberg during his time with the Chicago Bulls. Also, there was reportedly tension between the Philadelphia 76ers coaching staff and Butler last season and it played a role in the Sixers’ decision to not re-sign the four-time All-Star.

Butler had a heated argument with Sixers head coach Brett Brown during a film session shortly after Philly acquired him from the Minnesota Timberwolves.

All eyes are going to be on Jimmy Butler and Erik Spoelstra this season. The Heat are hoping Butler will be on his best behavior in South Beach.