Tensions between New York Knicks’ Josh Hart and Miami Heat’s Jimmy Butler have not subsided yet. The verbal sparring was kickstarted by the Heat player a few days ago and the Knicks player has finally responded. This altercation has drawn the attention of none other than Miami Heat President, Pat Riley.

In an episode of the ‘Roommates Show,’ Josh Hart and Jalen Brunson talked about Butler’s comments about the Knicks. They were joined by former Knicks star, John Starks.

Hart was dumbfounded by Jimmy Butler’s remarks

The saga unfolded when Butler, who has a reputation for being direct, made some bold remarks in a video. “If I was playing, Boston would be at home, New York would d*mn sure be f*cking at home,” he said. And when reminded of Josh Hart’s gameplay, he responded, “The f*ck that mean to me? Josh Hart? C’mon, man.” Jimmy implied that Hart was not a potential threat to him. Hart reacted to Butler’s remarks on his Instagram story by using a popular meme starring rapper 50 Cent. The message alluded to Hart’s confusion at being singled out by Butler. The clip said, “I’m like what he say f*ck me for.”

Hart didn’t stop there, either. In a subsequent interview, he openly addressed Butler’s comments, defending himself by clarifying that he didn’t start anything. “I don’t know why he said f*ck me. I didn’t say nothing,” Hart explained. “That wouldn’t have been my match-up. That would’ve been OG (OG Anunoby).” The reference to OG Anunoby, well known for his defense, gave the drama another layer. Then, the podcast host chimed in and said, “Jimmy don’t want to see OG” to which former Knicks player John Starks agreed, “Damn sure.” 

Butler’s comments did not just shake fans, but also his colleagues. Heat President Pat Riley was taken aback.

Heat President asks Butler to ‘keep his mouth shut’

President Pat Riley was shocked when he heard about Jimmy Butler’s comments. “I thought, ‘Is that Jimmy trolling or is that Jimmy serious?’” Riley said. “If you’re not on the court playing against Boston or on the court playing against the New York Knicks, you should keep your mouth shut on the criticism of those teams.” Riley’s comments were quite harsh. It doesn’t help that Butler’s status with the Heat is unsure as of now.

Jimmy is interested in extending his contract with Miami this summer but Miami’s President stands undecided. “We have not discussed that internally right now,” he said. “We have to look at making that kind of commitment. “That’s a big decision on our part to commit those kinds of resources unless you have somebody who’s going to be there and available every single night. Butler missed almost all games in the post-regular season due to his knee injury. He turns 35 this year and the aging will not help the frequent injuries.

Regardless, it is hard to say if Jimmy Butler’s presence on the court would’ve affected Miami’s playoff performance. As their rivalry unfolds, Butler awaits Miami’s decision about his future with the team. In light of Riley’s comments, Jimmy may have to start looking for a new home.