Jimmy Butler, a former Miami Heat standout, didn’t hold back during a press conference held after the game.
Butler snidely remarked, “And Buddy, stop trying to dribble,” after the Golden State Warriors defeated the Houston Rockets 95-85 in Game 1 of the playoffs. “I hate that.”
Bleacher Report on X’s direct statement immediately triggered social media reactions, with fans and pundits analyzing the two players’ relationship.
Butler’s remark reveals a mounting dissatisfaction with Hield’s on-court judgment.
Hield, who is renowned for his exceptional catch-and-shoot skills, has had trouble coming up with his own shoots or handling the ball a lot.
The Bahamian shooter has been a contentious figure this season since joining the Warriors in a historic six-team trade in July 2024.
In his first two games with the team, he set an NBA record for the most three-pointers made, but his inconsistent play in other areas has prompted criticism from Butler and head coach Steve Kerr, who once suggested that Hield pass to Steph Curry rather than shoot.
Instead of overcomplicating his game, Hield should focus on his strengths as a long-range sharpshooter if the Warriors want to make a deep postseason run.
Despite its harshness, Butler’s direct criticism highlights the team’s high standards.
All eyes will be on Hield as the playoffs go on to see if he can adjust and establish himself as a valuable member of Butler’s team and the Warriors’ all-star roster.
Will Hield’s situation improve as a result of this direct wake-up call, or will it exacerbate team tension?
