Jimmy Butler, a 6-time all-star and one of the biggest stars in the NBA, has been suspended seven games by the Miami Heat for “multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team.” In a statement Friday night, the Heat announced the suspension.
“Through his actions and statements, he has shown he no longer wants to be part of this team, Jimmy Butler and his representative have indicated that they wish to be traded, therefore, we will listen to offers,” the statement read.
After the Heat’s 128-115 loss to the Indiana Pacers Thursday night, Jan. 2, Butler spoke about his role on the team and confirmed the trade request.
“I want to see me get my joy back from playing basketball, wherever that may be –– we’ll find out here pretty soon,” Butler said. “I’m happy here off the court, but I want to be back to somewhat dominant. I want to hoop, and I want to help this team win. Right now, I’m not doing that.”
Butler’s minutes have decreased this season as the Heat lean more on Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo. In the loss to the Pacers, he scored just nine points, with four assists and two rebounds, while sitting on the bench during the fourth quarter.
“I felt great. I was focused. I felt like I was focused. I felt like I did my job. Well, at least, what my job is now,” Butler said of the game.
Led by Butler, the Heat have been to the NBA finals twice in the last five seasons and missed another trip by one game. For his part, head coach Eric Spoelstra says Butler does need to see the ball more.
“Hey, whatever we gotta do, got to get him activated, get the ball in his hands, play point,” Spoelstra said. “He’s done it before. We know how to get him going, he knows how to get going, these are not two strangers. Y’know?”
Statement from Pat Riley
— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) December 26, 2024
"We usually don't comment on rumors, but all this speculation has become a distraction to the team and is not fair to the players and coaches. Therefore, we will make it clear – We are not trading Jimmy Butler."
With the trade deadline a month away, Heat General Manager Pat Riley had previously said publicly he would not trade Butler, nor would he give him a contract extension. Butler, who will make $52 million this season, is now on the sidelines – at least for the next seven games- awaiting his fate. Cue the drama in Miami!
