Jimmy Butler Drops Blunt Admission on Teammate Buddy Hield

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Joshua Rosenblum | Last updated Apr 21, 2025 2:58 PM ET

Former Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler didn’t hold back during a post-game press conference.

Following the Golden State Warriors’ 95–85 Game 1 playoff victory over the Houston Rockets, Butler took a sharp jab at teammate Buddy Hield, saying, “And Buddy, stop trying to dribble. … I hate that.”

The blunt admission, shared by Bleacher Report on X, quickly sparked reactions across social media, with fans and analysts dissecting the dynamic between the two players.

Butler’s comment highlights a growing frustration with Hield’s on-court decision-making.

Known for his elite catch-and-shoot ability, Hield has struggled when tasked with creating his own shots or handling the ball extensively.

The Bahamian sharpshooter, who joined the Warriors in a historic six-team trade in July 2024, has been a polarizing figure this season.

While he set an NBA record for most three-pointers made in his first two games with the team, his inconsistency in other areas has drawn criticism—not just from Butler, but also from head coach Steve Kerr, who previously advised Hield to pass to Steph Curry instead of shooting.

The Warriors, aiming for a deep playoff run, need Hield to stick to his strengths as a long-range sniper rather than overcomplicating his game.

Butler’s straightforward critique, though harsh, underscores the team’s high expectations.

As the playoffs progress, all eyes will be on Hield to see if he can adapt and prove his worth alongside Butler and the Warriors’ star-studded lineup.

Will this blunt wake-up call ignite a turnaround for Hield, or deepen the tension within the team?

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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