The Miami Heat are suspending All-Star Jimmy Butler for two games after he missed a team flight to a road trip, per ESPN. This is the second in-house suspension for Butler this season, which only adds to the turmoil surrounding the team.
Butler intended to make his way to Milwaukee, where the Heat are set to face the Bucks on Thursday night, but the team is expected to suspend him for the remainder of the road trip, which also includes a game against the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday.
This news comes after Butler requested a trade a few weeks ago, citing issues with the team’s front office and some players. He has since played in several games, but has expressed frustration with the reports surrounding his relationship with the team.
Butler also made headlines recently for wearing Phoenix Suns-themed sneakers, which many believe was a display of his desired trade destination. The Suns have been looking for a star, and Butler would be a great addition to their roster, which has struggled this season.
The Heat’s management has changed its stance on Butler, moving from “we are not trading Jimmy Butler” to “we will listen to offers” after his seven-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the team.