With Steph Curry sidelined due to a hamstring injury during the NBA playoffs, the Golden State Warriors lost four consecutive games to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Jimmy Butler struggled in adapting to these changes, prompting Dwyane Wade to voice his concerns about Butler’s performance during a podcast. Wade expressed that Butler was too hesitant, particularly noting that in the last two games of the series, Butler managed only 31 points from 20 shots. Wade remarked that Butler’s mindset has been problematic in crucial moments:

“I didn’t like the way he approached the game. I know Jimmy is a pass-first guy, but at a certain point… he won’t look at the basket.”

He also indicated that Butler’s past performances may have influenced Heat president Pat Riley’s decisions regarding his contract extension. Wade stated that when Riley declines an extension, it’s not merely due to injuries but also a need to evaluate the player’s performance in critical situations.

Despite Wade acknowledging Butler’s past playoff heroics, he pointed out the repeated passivity during significant games. Conclusively, Butler will have an opportunity to redeem himself next season after signing a two-year contract extension with the Warriors.