Jimmy Butler might not have been able to play against his former team on Thursday night, but that certainly didn’t stop him from enjoying every moment of the Golden State Warriors’ victory over the Miami Heat.
And teammate Georges Niang had a rather amusing explanation for Butler’s unusually enthusiastic behavior on the sidelines.
Following Golden State’s convincing 120-100 victory at Chase Center, reporter Anthony Slater pointed out that Butler had appeared particularly animated throughout the contest.
Niang immediately understood why.
“I wonder why,” he replied sarcastically.
The Warriors forward then offered an analogy that perfectly captured the complicated relationship between Butler and his former franchise.
“Do you want to see your ex do better than she was with you? Not really.”
Jimmy Butler was particularly lively on the Warriors sideline tonight during win over the Heat.
Georges Niang: “I wonder why.”
“Do you want to see your ex do better than she was with you? Not really.” https://t.co/9h3E3DAAmG
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) November 6, 2026
Butler’s departure from Miami was anything but amicable. After spending five and a half seasons with the Heat, leading the organization to NBA Finals appearances in 2020 and 2023, the six-time All-Star became embroiled in an increasingly public dispute with the franchise during the 2024-25 season.
Contract disagreements, growing frustration over his role and multiple team-imposed suspensions ultimately resulted in his trade to Golden State in February 2025.
The move ended one of the most successful partnerships in recent Heat history, but hardly on friendly terms.
Thursday’s matchup provided another opportunity for Butler to watch his current team compete against the organization he once helped establish as an Eastern Conference contender.
Unfortunately, the veteran forward could only participate from the bench as he continues recovering from a torn ACL. Nevertheless, he had plenty to celebrate.
Stephen Curry scored 29 points, including 22 after halftime, while rookie Yaxel Lendeborg added 17 points, eight rebounds and six assists. Golden State took control in the third quarter and cruised to its sixth consecutive victory after opening the season 0-3.
Niang contributed 13 points off the bench, helping the Warriors improve to 6-3. Miami, meanwhile, dropped to 3-6 despite 22 points from Davion Mitchell and 20 points and 14 rebounds from Giannis Antetokounmpo.
