Jimmy Butler has been in the spotlight quite frequently recently and not just regarding his contract. Butler’s comments about facing the Knicks and Celtics and returning victorious in his presence drew significant criticism. It is worth noting that these comments were made when the Miami Heat were eliminated from the playoffs. After the comments, a recent tweet hints at a spat between Jimmy Butler and Heat owner Pat Riley, amidst which, the small forward is making a sturdy step.

As the rumors about his trade with the Los Angeles Lakers make their rounds, Butler has presented an announcement, bringing his Bigface to Miami which started with an investment of around $60,000.

Jimmy Butler’s Bigface and the Spat

Jimmy Butler, who owns a brand known as Bigface in the coffee beans and apparel sector, started out the company as a dream. Now after almost three years into the venture, the brand is set to open its first brick-and-mortar location in Miami’s Design District. “I am a big part of this. I don’t want anybody to think that I’m just handing this off to somebody else to do the work,” he had previously remarked, asserting his commitment. However, as he goes on with his off-court dream, chaos still surrounds Butler on the home ground.

Right before the playoffs, Jimmy Butler suffered an injury that caused him to miss the playoffs. It was hard for the Miami Heat to navigate without their star player and leader. But the Miami Heat managed to win the play-in tournament and were qualified for round 1 of the playoffs. However, with 4-1, Boston ensured to cut short the team’s journey just there.

Following the defeat, Butler was questioned about the playoffs at the Miami Grand Prix. “If I was playing, Boston would be at home. New York would damn sure be at home,” he replied. While some fans appreciated Butler’s confidence, most criticized him.

Miami Heat’s owner, Pat Riley, wasn’t fond of the comments made by Butler. Pat Riley, who is famous for maintaining order within his organization, responded with a clear message: “If you are not on the court playing against Boston or playing against New York, you should keep your mouth shut.” Later, a reporter inquired to him about Butler’s contract extension. Riley said, “It depends on availability.” Riley’s comments about Butler’s availability has sparked rumors of Butler joining LeBron James and Anthony Davis at Los Angeles Lakers.

Will Jimmy Butler join the Los Angeles Lakers?

Reports suggest that Jimmy Butler has been on the Lakers’ radar for a long time. The Lakers are always in search of superstars, and Butler could be a serious contender to join them. Butler is 34 years old. But the experience and scoring prowess that he brings to the roster is unbelievable. Moreover, Butler is also a good defender. The Lakers struggled on the defensive end against the Nuggets in round 1 of the playoffs, so bringing him could also be an answer to the Lakers’ defensive woes.

But can the Lakers afford him? The Lakers would have to pay a hefty amount of money to face Butler’s salary. D’Angelo Russell would have to opt for next year of his deal for Butler to arrive. Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent would be the other outgoing pieces if Butler arrives.

The question remains, can Butler match with LeBron James and Anthony Davis? Would his leadership style disrupt the Lakers’ locker room? Only time will tell what will happen, but this pre-season for the 2024-25 season will tell a lot about Butler’s future.