Heat’s Jimmy Butler Remains Confident About NBA Finals After Game 1 Loss

Jimmy Butler was not perturbed after the Nuggets’ 104-93 win against Miami in Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Thursday at Ball Arena.

After all, Miami became only the second No. 8 seed to reach the championship series and the Heat’s route to get there was not a piece of cake. However, prior to Thursday’s loss in Game 1, Miami had been undefeated in the opening round game in each of its three previous series against the Bucks, Knicks and Celtics in this year’s playoffs.

Despite Miami being down 0-1 for the first time this postseason and Denver remaining undefeated at home throughout the playoffs, Butler is merely focused on staying the course and taking care of business with the hopes of lifting the Larry O’Brien Trophy when the series is complete.

“I don't think too much has to be said...You gotta get to four,” Butler told reporters ahead on Saturday. “It’s never over. Nobody’s ever counted out.”

Herring: One Game in, and We Know the Nuggets Are Too Good for the Heat

"I don't think too much has to be said...You gotta get to four. It's never over. Nobody's ever counted out."

Jimmy Butler on the mindset being down 0-1 for the first time this postseason pic.twitter.com/maV3DVzd7l

— NBA TV (@NBATV) June 3, 2023

It is worth nothing that Miami lost the first game in each of the three seasons—2006, 2012 and 2013—that the franchise won a NBA title. In Game 1, Butler finished with a meager 13 points while Bam Adebayo led all scorers with 26 points while shooting 41% from the floor and grabbing 13 rebounds. 

However, if Miami seeks to avoid an 0-2 deficit, Butler will be required to deliver a more fitting performance in Sunday’s game.