
Miami Heat Suspends Jimmy Butler and Opens Trade Discussions
The Miami Heat has placed Jimmy Butler on a seven-game suspension for conduct issues, while the team is open to trade offers.
The Miami Heat has suspended Jimmy Butler for seven games due to “multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team,” as stated by the organization on Friday.
“We have suspended Jimmy Butler for seven games for multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team over the course of the season and particularly the last several weeks,” the statement read.
This suspension comes after Butler expressed a lack of “joy” in Miami and indicated he would be “happy playing anywhere but the Heat.”
“Through his actions and statements, he has shown he no longer wants to be part of this team. Jimmy Butler and his representative have indicated that they wish to be traded; therefore, we will listen to offers.”
Previously, Heat president Pat Riley commented that Butler wouldn’t be traded, although Butler’s recent statements appear to have prompted a change in direction for the team.
Butler, 35, is averaging 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.7 assists this season as the Heat holds a 17-15 record, placing them sixth in the Eastern Conference.