Miami Heat star forward Jimmy Butler expressed disappointment with the team’s front office for not being more aggressive in improving the roster through trades and free agency. The 35-year-old veteran, who signed with Miami before the 2019-20 season, has been frustrated by the team’s lack of ambition after other Eastern Conference powers made significant moves to strengthen their rosters.
Butler’s dissatisfaction comes despite his own contributions, including leading the Heat to three Eastern Conference Finals appearances and two championships in 2020 and 2023. However, with Miami currently sitting seventh in the Eastern Conference with a 20-18 record, it appears Butler may not be able to lead the team to the playoffs.
The Heat recently suspended Butler for seven games due to “multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team.” The suspension was accompanied by reports that Butler and his agent had submitted a trade request, which the team has been exploring. With the trade deadline approaching on February 6, Butler’s future with the Heat remains uncertain.
As an expiring contract player with a $52 million option for the 2025-26 season, Butler plans to use this option as a “trade maneuver” if he is not able to secure a deal elsewhere. With his skills and experience, it’s likely that Butler will be in high demand on the trade market, making his impending free agency all the more intriguing.
Source: https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10150890-nba-rumors-jimmy-butler-disappointed-with-heats-lack-of-ambition-via-trades-fa