‘Playoffs Jimmy Butler’ has been doing his thing yet again in the postseason. After barely escaping elimination in the Play-In, the 33-year-old has turned things around for the Miami Heat. Taking a 1-0 lead in the Conference Semi-Finals against the New York Knicks, Butler proved his toughness yet again in front of a boisterous Madison Square Garden audience. Joining a star-studded MSG crowd, three-time NBA champion and Heat legend Dwyane Wade witnessed ‘Playoffs Jimmy’ snatch the home-court advantage away from the Knicks. Butler’s wholesome interaction with Wade after closing out the New York Knicks stands as a highlight on social media.?
The Heat legend went on to mock the shooting guard as they celebrated the win at MSG. However, it was definitely not a great sight for the Knicks fans in attendance as NBA buffs continue to react to the road win.
Jimmy Butler shined bright against the New York Knicks
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Just a few hours before the game, the NY unit announced that Julius Randle would not be available for Game 1 due to an ankle sprain. However, that did not stop Jalen Brunson and RJ Barrett from balling. With 25+ points each, both the guards gave their best but couldn’t bag a home win, losing 101-108.
Jimmy Buckets did it once again with 25 points and 11 rebounds to claim Game 1 in enemy territory. What was a close game until the late third quarter turned around after the six-time All-Star and Kevin Love decided to make use of fast breaks. After the crowd went silent, Butler decided to have fun with Wade.?
As he walked to the Heat legend, Butler was put forth with a request as Wade mocked him. The 41-year-old requested,?“Can I get your autograph?” to Butler, who couldn’t control his laughter. The two share a great relationship from their time in Chicago playing for the Bulls.
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The duo are so close that Butler once went as far as thirsting on Wade’s wife, Gabrielle Union’s pic on Instagram. This led to the 13x NBA All-Star putting Butler back in his place by giving him a friendly warning. Ever since Butler joined the Heat in 2019, they have grown closer due to their common affection for Miami.
Fans react to the Butler-Wade moment in front of the MSG
Dwyane Wade played a similar role for the Miami Heat during his career. As a 6’4 shooting guard for the team, Wade put the team on his back several times in his prime. Looks like Butler is here to carry Wade’s legacy with the Heat.
Though many loved the interaction between the two, a few buffs believe the Knicks fans were in “shambles” as the crowd went quiet during their interaction. Here are some of the fans’ reactions to the moment between the two stars as they make their predictions for the series:?
“Knicks fans in shambles”
“KNICKS FANS WERE TALKING ALL THAT SMACK”
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“Real recognizes Real”
“Heat gonna sweep the finals”
“Jimmy buckets and Heat looking east finals ready”
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Watch this story: “WNBA legend shoots daggers at Hall of Famers Dwyane Wade and Shaquille O’Neal amid March Madness ‘Final Four’ battle”
Do you think Jimmy Butler and the Heat can make it to the Conference Finals? Share your thoughts in the comments below.