the Jimmy Butler Trade rumors had reached the point where Miami Heat president Pat Riley needed to step in to say what the organization would do.
From his words, Butler isn't going anywhere.
Riley said in press statements: “We usually do not comment on rumours, but all this speculation has become a source of distraction for the team and is unfair to the players and coaches.” Heat statement. “So we'll make it clear we're not trading Jimmy Butler.”
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Miami Heat president Pat Riley gestures as he speaks during his postseason news conference, Monday, June 6, 2022, in Miami. As always, Riley will go into the offseason saying that if there's a deal to be made that gets Miami closer to the championship, he will do it. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)
What sparked the rumors was an ESPN report that stated the veteran wanted to leave Miami amid his sixth season with the organization.
The report added that the Heat were willing to listen to trade offers before the February 6 deadline.
Afterward, the Miami Herald reported that Butler had a desire to leave, as the team had not publicly denied the rumors.
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Well, that all changed with Riley's statement on the matter, as the Heat want their star/forward to stay put.
Butler is currently averaging 18.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4.9 assists through 20 games so far this season.
Looking ahead to next season, Butler is not expected to exercise his $52.4 million player option. The Miami Herald also reported that the Heat are unwilling to extend his contract through the 2026-27 season, so there's a good chance Butler, who turns 36 next season, will look for a new team next season.
Miami Heat forward Kevin Love (42) talks with forward Jimmy Butler (22) in the second half against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena. (Photos by Rick Osentoski-Imagine)
Before becoming a force for the Heat, Butler spent his first six NBA seasons with the team Chicago Bullsstarting the 2011-12 campaign after being drafted 30th overall out of Marquette.
He was a three-time All-Star in the Windy City, while winning the Most Improved Player award for his performance in the 2014-15 season.
Butler would end up going to the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2017, but it didn't last long as he was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers midway through the 2018-19 season.
Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler (22 years old) walks off the court after the game against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena. (Photos by Rick Osentoski-Imagine)
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The versatile star has been a cornerstone of the Heat's locker room since joining the team in 2019, earning two All-Star nods over the past six seasons.
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