Miami Heat's Nikola Jovic On Jimmy Butler: 'He's Like An Older Brother'

Miami Heat forward Nikola Jovic talks about Jimmy Butler's guidance after star performance in Los Angeles Lakers victory.

When thinking about Miami Heat's Jimmy Butler, many often talk about his vibrant personality, trash talk and superstar playoff performances.

But one aspect that sometimes gets overlooked is his mentorship and leadership. Heat forward Nikola Jovic talked about Butler's role in his development after his 15-point performance against the Los Angeles Lakers.

"I feel like he’s my older brother," Jovic said. First of all, with confidence. Working out with him and being around him, he just helped me to believe in myself. Working out with him meant a lot to me because if I can score against Jimmy and guard Jimmy, I can go against anyone. He's the best in the league on both ends. It just means a lot, he's a good friend and a good guy."

As a Minnesota Timberwolf, Butler was labeled as a "locker room cancer" that didn't build with his team. In Miami, he has completely changed that narrative with the way he pours into younger players and helps his team develop as a unit. Even when Butler isn't on the court, his impact on the Heat remains. The previous narrative of him carrying his teammates is slowly evaporating.

Jovic hasn't had a lot of playing time, but performances like Wednesday night can help strengthen his case to be in the starting rotation. He has his next opportunity against the Phoenix Suns (18-16) Friday night.

Jayden Armant is a contributor to Inside the Heat. He is a student at Howard University. He can be reached at or follow him on Twitter @jaydenarmant.

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