Heat's Erik Spoelstra: Jimmy Butler 'needs me, I need him'
In their sixth year together, Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra is confident that he and Jimmy Butler will finally have a breakthrough in their relationship. This belief is largely based on their longevity and mutual dependence.
\"After being together for so many years, there is a strong unspoken understanding between us,\" Spoelstra stated at Miami's media day on Monday.
\"At this point, Jimmy needs me to coach the team at a high level and push him to reach new heights. And I need him to be at his best as a player and leader.\"
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Butler, who just turned 35 on September 14, had a slightly lower scoring average of 20.8 points per game last season compared to previous years with the Chicago Bulls. He also averaged 5.3 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game in the 2023-24 season.
All eyes will be on Butler's contract situation, especially after Heat president Pat Riley dismissed the possibility of a contract extension during his end-of-season remarks in May. Butler is set to earn $48.8 million this season and has a player option for 2025-26. Reports have stated that Butler is seeking a two-year extension worth at least $110 million.
Butler was expected to speak later on Monday and attend the first training camp practice in the Bahamas on Tuesday.
Spoelstra revealed that Butler spent his extended offseason recovering from a knee injury that kept him out of the playoffs against the Boston Celtics.
\"He's in a great place heading into camp. He's prepared himself,\" Spoelstra shared. \"We've been in touch and I told him about this opportunity during our last meeting.\"
Spoelstra also called on All-Star Bam Adebayo to work closely with Butler and push the team to reach their full potential. Adebayo showed significant improvement as an outside shooter towards the end of last season and during the Paris Olympics. He believes that some adjustments to the offense will make it more difficult for opponents to defend against the Heat this season.
\"Having good spacing on the floor will make things easier for Jimmy, Terry Rozier, Tyler Herro, and myself to attack the basket,\" Adebayo explained. \"It will open up the floor for us.\"
