The Miami Heat have suspended Jimmy Butler indefinitely, as reported by ESPN on Monday. This decision comes after Butler’s unexpected exit from shootaround when he learned he would not be starting against the Orlando Magic.
Previously, Butler had already faced two suspensions this month, including a seven-game ban for conduct deemed detrimental by the team. His absence has been significant, with Butler missing 14 of the last 19 games, including nine of the last 12 due to these suspensions.
Interestingly, Butler has not come off the bench since January 27, 2017 — a game against Miami where he and former teammate Dwyane Wade openly criticized their team’s performance. Since then, he has started every game, totaling 560 consecutive starts, including playoffs.
Tyler Herro, a guard for the Heat, shared his thoughts on Butler’s situation during shootaround, stating, “It kind of feels normal now at this point. Kind of is what it is, but nothing’s guaranteed. We’ve just got to be ready to roll with whatever cards we’re dealt tonight.”
The ongoing saga surrounding Butler has lasted nearly two months and is expected to reach a critical point soon. With the NBA trade deadline approaching on February 6, there is speculation that Butler might have played his final game for the Heat.
The Heat’s next game is scheduled for Wednesday against the Cleveland Cavaliers, followed by a four-game road trip that includes matchups against the San Antonio Spurs, Chicago Bulls, Philadelphia 76ers, and Brooklyn Nets. The latter game will take place on February 7, just a day after the trade deadline.
Despite the turmoil, Butler has consistently expressed his love for Miami off the court. “I love this city with everything that I have,” he stated recently while participating in a padel tournament he co-chaired.
The core issue appears to be his relationship with the team. Last summer, Butler became eligible for a lucrative two-year, $113 million extension, which the Heat have yet to offer. Team president Pat Riley has previously mentioned concerns regarding Butler’s availability, as he has missed roughly one in four games since joining Miami.
Initially, Butler claimed he was not upset about the lack of an extension. However, recent developments suggest that his feelings may have shifted, leading to reports that he has requested a trade, a move he cannot publicly announce due to league regulations.
So far this season, Butler has averaged 17 points per game. He notably recorded one of the best statistical performances in Heat history against the Detroit Pistons on December 16, scoring 35 points, grabbing 19 rebounds, and dishing out 10 assists.
However, in the six games leading up to Monday, including one where he left early due to illness, Butler’s averages dropped to 9.5 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 4.2 assists.
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