Despite Risk of Triggering Michael Jordan, Jimmy Butler Reveals Baffling Pat Riley Story: “You Can’t Wear…”

Playoffs Jimmy Butler is one of the best players in the league currently. From avoiding a near elimination before the playoffs to making his way into the Conference Finals again, the 33-year-old veteran is on a mission to bag his first ring. While he prepares to face the Boston Celtics, Butler shared a wild story about how the president of the Miami Heat was inches away from possibly triggering Michael Jordan and his fanbase.

Though the 6-time All-Star avoided it, his narration on Pat Riley’s decision might be taken personally by the Chicago Bulls legend. Considering MJ’s ‘The Last Dance’ documentary, it certainly looks like a possibility.

Jimmy Butler revealed an astonishing Pat Riley incident that could trigger MJ

It’s safe to say Butler is carrying the Miami Heat. Eliminating the first-seed Milwaukee Bucks, the 6’7 forward is already one of the best playoffs performer this season. Averaging an extraordinary 31.1 points in the postseason so far, the odds of winning his first title are high. Amidst the preparation for the Finals, Butler took some time to explain a Pat Riley story, which the MJ fans might not appreciate.

Jimmy Butler wore the jersey number 21 during his time with the Chicago Bulls. Later, when he was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers, the 6-time All-Star got the opportunity to wear the famous number, 23. Further, when he was traded to the Miami Heat, Butler couldn’t wear 23 as the franchise had retired it as a mark of respect for His Airness.

However, Butler revealed he was given the opportunity to wear it. He mentioned in his Instagram story, “You can’t wear a 23 here[Miami Heat]. Because of MJ. Literally Pat Riley retired it. But I’ll say this! Whenever I did come here, Pat told me that I could wear 23, but I said no.”?This comes as a surprise because another great No.23 played for the Heat a few years back; LeBron James.

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While The King had already decided to change his number before he came to Miami, there are no reports of Riley offering the 4x NBA champion the opportunity of wearing the famed jersey. However, LeBron returned to wearing the No.23 jersey after he left Miami. But one would wonder, why did the Heat retire someone’s jersey who hasn’t even played for the franchise?

Pat Riley honored Michael Jordan in 2003

Michael Jordan’s tenure in the NBA was magical for many. Even his opponents. In his final season with the Wizards, Heat President Pat Riley made sure he honored one of the greatest players to touch the basketball.

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In 2003, Riley mentioned, “In honor of your greatness and for all you?ve done for the game of basketball ?we want to honor you tonight and hang your jersey, No. 23, from the rafters.” Riley also added, “No one will ever wear No. 23 for the Miami Heat. You?re the best.”?However, it looks like the tables have turned. Riley was ready to un-retire MJ’s jersey for Jimmy Butler!

Do you think Butler made the right decision by not choosing to wear 23? Share your thoughts in the comments below.