6 January 2025

Miami Heat's Jimmy Butler is unable to play against the Orlando Magic Thursday. The six-time NBA All-Star had issues with his conditioning before the game and was expected to not suit up. butler He missed the past two matches due to an unspecified illness. It will be his eighth absence. The star forward averaged 18.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4.9 assists, shooting 55.2%. The Heat went 3-4 without Butler.

His out-of-form status for Thursday's game comes at a critical time, as he has been embroiled in a slew of trade rumours. According to NBA insider Shams Charania, Butler has not demanded a trade. However, he is ready for his final exit from… heat. Charania also reported that Butler and the Heat fell apart after the franchise failed to bolster its supporting cast.

Over the past three seasons, Miami has missed several top prospects, including Kevin Durant, Donovan Mitchell, Kyrie Irving, Damian Lillard and Bradley Beal. Their most notable addition was Terry Rozier, who joined the team at the 2024 trade deadline.

Jimmy Butler led the Heat to a playoff berth in each of his previous five seasons, including two Finals and two Conference Finals. His time away from the team amid trade rumors has increased speculation about his possible departure.

The Miami Heat do not show urgency in trading Jimmy Butler

Jimmy Butler confirmed he was a pro in his sixth season with the Miami Heat. Barring injuries, he is adequate and utilizing his potential to give Miami a legitimate chance at success in the regular season despite the trade rumors. In this case, the Heat are said to be showing no urgency in trading him.

He still has a $52 million player option after this season, and both parties appear to be taking advantage of that amid this tense situation. If Butler leaves, he could move to the Western Conference. According to Shams Charania, Butler's preferred landing spots are the Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets and Phoenix Suns.

The Warriors and Rockets seem more likely because they have the pieces and assets to make the trade work. However, only time will tell whether an agreement can be reached or not. Any potential suitor would have approximately six weeks to negotiate a package leading up to the February 6, 2025 trade deadline.