Jimmy Butler, the star player of the Miami Heat, has always received high praise for his on-court prowess. But recently, Heat former player Udonis Haslem praised Butler for his game IQ too, and said he is ahead when compared to other NBA legends like LeBron James and Dwyane Wade.
In a recent interview with Taylor Rooks of Bleacher Report, Haslem highlighted Butler’s smart ability to make difficult shots consistently. “The shots that Jimmy Butler makes are not normal. The degree of difficulty on the shots that he is making, how he is creating space to get to these shots, that is something different.” Haslem said.
Haslem also acknowledged the skills of players like Wade, James, and Joe Johnson and pointed out Butler’s uniqueness. “Jimmy damn sure might be one of the smartest ones out of those guys. Jimmy is smart as hell.”
Udonis Haslem on Jimmy Butler:
“The shots that Jimmy Butler make are not normal.”
“I’ve played 1-on-1 with Dwyane. I’ve played 1-on-1 with LeBron…I’ve played 1-on-1 with Jimmy, so I’ve seen the difference.”
“Jimmy damn sure might be 1 of the smartest ones out of those guys.” pic.twitter.com/imVmfcjcNC
— Brady Hawk (@BradyHawk305) October 24, 2023
But what makes Jimmy Butler unique in Haslem’s opinion? It’s Butler’s ability to understand defenses and that allows him to consistently find his flow and get his shots. Haslem explained this, “He understands how to get his shot off. He understands how to get you to switch your pivot feet, so he can attack one leg, so he can counter you. He understands how to get to the free-throw line.”
Last season, Butler averaged 22.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, these outstanding numbers show his capabilities. In the playoffs, Butler led the Heat from an eighth-place team to the 2023 NBA Finals, this proves that Butler has the combination of skill and IQ.
Udonis Haslem played with LeBron James and Dwyane Wade for four years
Veteran Miami Heat star, Udonis Haslem took retirement last season from his successful 20-season NBA journey, all with the Miami Heat. When he announced his retirement, former teammates, including NBA legends LeBron James and Dwyane Wade, paid him heartfelt tributes.
Throughout his career, Haslem was a key player of the Heat’s legacy, he participated in seven NBA Finals and won three titles. He played with Wade in the 2006 championship and later teamed up with James for consecutive championships in 2012 and 2013.
You’re gonna need tissues handy for this one 🥹
Ahead of @ThisIsUD‘s final game his teammates from all eras of his 20 year career have nothing but love for OG pic.twitter.com/YjrE7wvkc5
— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) April 8, 2023
Even though Haslem’s on-court appearances declined in recent years with just 65 games since the 2016-17 season, his off-court influence was great. The big man’s leadership qualities were valued by his teammates, as shown in their heartfelt messages on his retirement post.
Haslem leaves a lasting impression with his 879 regular-season games played and as the all-time rebound leader for the Heat. The Heat’s future roster will surely be inspired by the standards he set in his career.