Tyler Herro recently shared his thoughts on Andrew Wiggins wearing No. 22 for the Miami Heat following Jimmy Butler’s departure. The Heat traded Butler to the Golden State Warriors before the Feb. 6 trade deadline, ending his five-season tenure with the team. The decision to give Wiggins the same jersey number Butler wore in Miami has sparked discussion among fans and players alike.
Wiggins, a former No. 1 overall pick, has consistently worn No. 22 throughout his NBA career, including during his time with the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Warriors. When he arrived in Miami as part of the trade package for Butler, he kept his usual number, which naturally led to questions given Butler’s impact on the franchise.
Butler played a pivotal role in transforming the Heat into a championship contender during his time with the team. Under his leadership, Miami reached the NBA Finals twice, in 2020 and 2023, and made multiple deep playoff runs. His relentless work ethic and leadership helped define the team’s identity over the past five years. Because of this, many fans associate No. 22 with Butler, making Wiggins’ decision to wear it a topic of conversation.
Tyler Herro, one of Miami’s key players, was asked about Wiggins’ choice and how it might be perceived by the team and fans. While Herro didn’t express any outright concerns, his comments suggested he understood why some might find it unusual. However, he also acknowledged that Wiggins has every right to continue wearing the number since he has worn it throughout his career.
The situation raises an interesting debate about the significance of jersey numbers and whether certain players’ contributions make a number untouchable for future Heat players. Although Butler was instrumental in Miami’s recent success, his number has not been retired, meaning it remains available for use. The Heat organization, known for honoring its past stars, could eventually consider retiring Butler’s jersey, but for now, Wiggins is free to wear No. 22.
Despite the discussion surrounding the number, Wiggins is focused on making an impact in Miami. A skilled two-way player, he brings versatility and experience to the roster. While he may not play the same role as Butler, Wiggins’ defensive ability and scoring potential make him a valuable addition to the team.
As the Heat transition into a new era without Butler, all eyes will be on Wiggins to see how he fits into the lineup. Whether or not fans eventually accept him wearing No. 22, his performance on the court will ultimately determine how he is remembered in Miami.
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