Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler. Michael Laughlin-USA TODAY Sports

Jimmy Butler has bold take about Celtics and Knicks

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated 5/4/24

Jimmy Butler missed the Miami Heat’s first round series against the Boston Celtics, but he is quite confident the outcome would have been different had he been able to play.

In a video on social media, Butler is seen saying the Heat absolutely would have beaten Boston had he been able to play. He also said he would have taken out the New York Knicks and his former coach, Tim Thibodeau. Be warned that the video contains some strong language.

Jimmy Butler says he would’ve sent the Knicks home, scoffs at idea Josh Hart could’ve stopped him and says relationship with Thibs is one-sided.

“You want me, I don’t want you.”

pic.twitter.com/GUBylyubHz

— Stefan Bondy (@SbondyNBA) May 4, 2024

“If I was playing, Boston would be at home. New York damn sure would be f—ing at home,” Butler said. “Thibs, I love you, baby. I want to beat you to a pulp. You want me, I don’t want you. It’s like a one-sided relationship. You in love with me, and I love you, but I’m not in love with you.”

The Heat ultimately lost to Boston in five games in a series where Miami was largely outplayed from start to finish. It is hard to imagine Butler singlehandedly turning the tide, but it is the exact sort of confidence one would expect from him.

The question now is whether Butler and the Heat decide to extend their relationship. One report suggests that might not be a sure thing, but it is too soon to tell.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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