Jimmy Butler’s suspension has sparked rumors of a potential trade to the Phoenix Suns or other teams. Butler will be expected to rejoin the Heat and play in games if he’s still on the roster at the end of his seven-game suspension. However, the team is not interested in having him remain away from the team while paying him the remainder of his $48.8 million salary.
The Heat announced Butler’s suspension due to “multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team,” citing his dissatisfaction with being part of the team and his desire to leave. Butler has been vocal about his unhappiness, stating that he wants to get his joy back from playing basketball and be a dominant force on the court again.
Butler is averaging 17.6 points per game this season, but has been limited by injuries and a stomach illness. The Heat’s decision not to offer him a two-year contract extension last summer reportedly contributed to his dissatisfaction. Butler will miss about $2.4 million in salary due to the suspension and may file a grievance with the NBA Players Association.
The Suns are among the teams interested in trading for Butler, but acquiring guard Bradley Beal would be complicated due to Beal’s no-trade clause. The Heat is not interested in taking on Beal’s contract, making a deal challenging. The NBA trade deadline is Feb. 6, which may influence Butler’s future with the Heat.
Despite his contentious relationship with the team, Butler has made significant contributions to the Heat, including multiple All-Star appearances and an All-NBA selection. His fate remains uncertain as the trade deadline approaches, but one thing is clear: Butler wants to return to being a dominant player and win championships with the Heat.
Source: https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/nba/miami-heat/article298036423.html