In a memorable press conference after they lost their first-round series against the eventual champion Boston Celtics in five games, Heat president Pat Riley challenged franchise player Jimmy Butler to be more available and criticized Butler for talking trash about the Celtics.

During Riley’s season-ending news conference in May, he challenged Butler to be available for more games moving forward. Butler is off to a good start, appearing in each of the Heat’s first four games this preseason after not playing in any preseason games last year.

Miami Heat general manager Pat Riley offered a surprising take on the team heading into 2024, as they struggled mightily last season.