While the Heat and Butler ended the relationship in ugly fashion, it still seems that time will heal all wounds, with Riley never faltering in his appreciation. He would even say on Friday that he loves Butler while acknowledging that sometimes, negotiations go south.

After 30 years with the Miami Heat and 80 years around the sun, Pat Riley has no plans to retire anytime soon. "I just turned 80, and I'm proud of it and 80 is the new 60," Riley told reporters. "I mean, that's how I look at it. I feel great. I am competitive as hell."

After an embarrassing showing in the 2025 playoffs, the Miami Heat are due for some major changes this summer. In his annual press conference to end the season, team President Pat Riley confirmed that the strategy will not be to "run it back" after several years of limited roster moves.