Butler suggests behind-the-scenes conflict led to 76ers exit

The separation between the Philadelphia 76ers and Jimmy Butler may not have been an amicable one.

In an interview with Yahoo Sports' Chris Haynes, the Miami Heat swingman appeared to hint at a behind-the-scenes incident during his time with the 76ers last season that ultimately convinced the star to depart as a free agent.

"Stuff just don't work out. Nobody knows what really went on in Philly and we're going to leave it that way," Butler said. "But it was a great opportunity for me."

Butler didn't specify exactly what transpired or if it involved any other players on the squad. However, there were some noted disagreements between the 30-year-old and other 76ers personnel after he was acquired via trade early last season.

Two months into Butler's stint in Philadelphia, the veteran challenged 76ers head coach Brett Brown over his offensive system during an animated film session. Brown downplayed the incident, saying he didn't feel the outburst crossed any lines.

Days later, Butler publicly objected to an assessment by teammate Ben Simmons in which the guard referred to the rest of the 76ers as "soft" following a home loss to the Atlanta Hawks.

As to what eventually convinced him to leave, Butler conceded that the details will eventually emerge, though he seemingly ruled out any conflict with 76ers center Joel Embiid.

"Just go with your gut. You're not dumb. All of that will come out whenever it's time," he added. "Right now is not the time. I'm locked in with this. I'm happy, man. I'm smiling and my guys want me to be here, my organization wants me to be here, I want to be here, and we're going to ride this thing until the wheels fall off.

"I'm not saying Philly wasn't great, man. We had some really good players. I talk to Joel (Embiid) damn near every f------ day. It's a brotherhood, man. I love that guy. I'm going to always have his back and I know he'll always have mine."