“Love That Kid to Death”: Jimmy Butler Lauds Miami Heat Rookie Following His Career-Best Game

The Miami Heat lost to Oklahoma City Thunder in dramatic fashion. Bench player Mike Muscala hit a game-winning three and took the Thunder to a one-point win over the Heat. The biggest positive for Miami was Tyler Herro. He had his career-best game as he scored 30 points. During this clinical performance, he shot 9/16 from the field, including 3/6 from deep.

In the post-game conference, Heat star Jimmy Butler was all-praise for the rookie.

“Love that kid to death,” Butler said. “His growing each and every time he steps on a basketball court. Obviously he can score the ball, but he is getting everybody involved. He is listening, learning, and being coached by everybody. He is just being a great teammate. It’s crazy that he is as young as he is, but he plays the game like he’s been in the league for a long time.”

Herro wants to win a title for Miami Heat

The follow-up question was regarding Herro’s improvement over the last year. Butler said, “His finishing, knowing when to make late decisions, knowing when to shoot the floater, knowing when to hit the baseline or pocket pass. It’s not surprising to me though because he’s always studying the film. The kid just wants to be great. He wants to help bring a championship to Miami.”

Drafted 13th overall from the University of Kentucky, Herro has proven to be a spark off the bench for the Heat. He is the best shooter in his rookie class, averaging 38% from the three-point line. He has also shown off his ability to step up in the clutch moments twice already.

The first was against the Bulls back in December. He had five threes in the game, including three crucial shots in overtime to win the game for the Heat.

The Heat were down by two against the 76ers with 15 seconds to go. Embiid had the ball, but Butler poked it loose and Herro led the fastbreak. Instead of going for an easy and open layup, he stepped back behind the three-point line and sank the game-winning shot.

He has developed a lot under Butler, who is known for his leadership in the league. If this duo stays together, Herro can learn a lot and also improve his defense from Butler, who is one of the best in his position.

The Heat play their last game against the Pacers, who are also their matchup for the first round of the playoffs. Butler will be looking forward to shutting down T. J. Warren again and come away with a win.