The Miami Heat have suspended Jimmy Butler indefinitely following weeks of tension and controversy.
(2/2) The suspension is due to a continued pattern of disregard of team rules, engaging in conduct detrimental to the team and intentionally withholding services. This includes walking out of practice earlier today.
— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) January 27, 2025
Butler was set to return for Miami’s matchup against the Orlando Magic on Monday night after serving a two-game suspension for missing a team flight to Milwaukee. However, the star forward reportedly walked out of the team’s shootaround upon learning he would not be in the starting lineup.
In a statement, the team said: “The Miami HEAT are suspending Jimmy Butler without pay effective immediately for an indefinite period to last no fewer than five games. The suspension is due to a continued pattern of disregard of team rules, engaging in conduct detrimental to the team and intentionally withholding services. This includes walking out of practice earlier today.”
This marks Butler’s third suspension this month, capping off a stretch in which he’s missed 14 of Miami’s last 19 games. Nine of those absences have been due to disciplinary actions, including a prior seven-game suspension for conduct the team deemed detrimental.
The situation comes as Butler and the Heat work toward a potential trade. The star forward, who is earning $48.8 million this season, requested a trade earlier this month. However, moving his contract will be complicated due to the NBA’s new collective bargaining agreement, which limits options for high-spending teams.
Butler’s frustrations with the organization are believed to stem from Miami’s decision not to offer him a two-year, $113 million contract extension last summer. Heat president Pat Riley cited concerns about Butler’s availability, as he has missed approximately one out of every four games since joining the team.
Despite his issues with the team, Butler has expressed his love for the city of Miami, saying during a weekend appearance at a padel tournament, “I love this city with everything that I have.”
On the court, Butler has seen a dip in performance. After an incredible 35-point, 19-rebound, and 10-assist game against Detroit on Dec. 16, he has averaged just 9.5 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 4.2 assists in six appearances since then.
The Heat face a fast-approaching deadline to resolve Butler’s situation, with the NBA trade deadline set for Feb. 6. Miami’s next game is at home on Wednesday against Cleveland, followed by a four-game road trip.
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