New Heat era begins as Wiggins hopes to make Miami debut
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Andrew Wiggins shoots over Jimmy Butler in 2022. Photo: Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images
A new No. 22 will soon be suiting up for the Heat. Andrew Wiggins hopes to make his debut tonight after being traded for Jimmy Butler.
Why it matters: Tonight's home game gives Heat fans their first look at the post-Butler era.
Catch up quick: Miami acquired Wiggins and guards Kyle Anderson and Davion Mitchell — along with a first-round pick — in the Butler trade last Wednesday.
- Wiggins will be wearing the same No. 22 that Butler wore for over five years in Miami. (Wiggins has worn that number throughout his career.)
Friction point: An explosive story in the Athletic on Friday chronicled Butler's final days in Miami.
- Details included a dispute over Butler's preference to travel separately from the team and a tearful meeting with team president Pat Riley.
Meanwhile, after his trade to the Warriors, Butler told reporters he didn't harbor any ill will toward the Heat.
- "I've got a lot of love for a lot of people over there in that organization and I just want them to know that I am very grateful for the relationships that I have built and that I will keep for a lifetime."
- Butler's mural in Wynwood was painted over on Friday by the artist, Kyle Holbrook, who told Axios that Butler could regain his place on the Heat mural wall after he retires.
Heat coach Erik Spoelstra broke his silence Friday, telling reporters he was grateful to have coached Butler and they share great memories together.
- "Now we turn the page to a different chapter. That's the reality in this league. Nothing lasts forever. And we feel good about turning the page.