The Miami Heat have suspended star and often "misunderstood" guard Jimmy Butler for seven games for "multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team."
“We have suspended Jimmy Butler for seven games for multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team over the course of the season and particularly the last several weeks,” the team said in its statement. “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.”
As someone who had a blonde mullet for a few months, you can't tell me someone that shows up to preseason media day rocking an eyebrow ring and this hairstyle is a great locker room guy.
Sure, Jimmy is a premier talent around the NBA. Sure, he has pleaded his case to the Miami Heat organization the last 3 off seasons to bring in additional star talent to stay competitive with Boston, Milwaukee, New York, and if you want to count Philly. Eventually it get's frustrating going out and getting washed on the court, and having to do everything yourself while 25% of the modern NBA is essentially "super teams" or at least have 2 top tier players.
This of course all comes back to money. Butler wants a new long-term contract. The Heat don’t want to give him one at 35 years old. Butler has a player option for next season at $52 million, and he’s promising to opt out and find more guaranteed money.
The Heat have no incentive to tank with their 2025 first-round draft pick belonging to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Miami is 17-15 overall, and is currently the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference playoff picture.
I would say it is highly likely that Butler gets moved during this suspension. Where that may be is unknown. But looking at when the Nets traded KD, draft picks essentially mean nothing to teams nowadays, so it's whatever team can offer the best package.
The Warriors, Suns, Mavericks, and his hometown Rockets had been floated as Butler’s preferred landing spots in a deal, but the Heat figure to listen to any team that expresses interest.
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