Rumors Swirl as Miami Heat Admit Jimmy Butler Wants Out, Suspend Star Forward for Seven Games
The Miami Heat have made a shocking U-turn on their stance regarding star forward Jimmy Butler, announcing that he has asked to be traded and suspending him for seven games due to “multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team.” The news comes after weeks of speculation that Butler wanted out of Miami, with the team initially denying any trade rumors.
In a statement on Friday, the Heat admitted that Butler’s actions and statements have shown that he no longer wants to be part of the team. Butler’s agent had previously shut down reports of a potential trade, but it appears that it was always his intention to leave.
Butler has been critical of his time in Miami, stating that he has no “joy” playing basketball for the team and cannot find it again. He will not be with the team for its next two games, and the earliest he could return is January 17.
The 34-year-old is averaging 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game in his sixth season with the Heat. He has played in two NBA Finals with the team, losing both. It is likely that Butler has played his final game for the Heat.