Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat cannot play against the Orlando Magic on Thursday. The six-time NBA All-Star had issues with his conditioning before the game and was not expected to suit up. Butler missed the last two games with an undisclosed illness. This will be his eighth absence. The star forward shot 55.2% with an average of 18.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4.9 assists. The Heat went 3-4 without Butler.
His unavailable status for Thursday's game comes at a crucial time as he has been involved in multiple trade rumors. According to NBA insider Shams Charania, Butler has not requested a trade. However, he is ready for his final performance Heat. Charania also stated that Butler and the Heat franchise fell apart after failing to bolster its supporting cast.
Over the past three seasons, Miami has missed out on several top prospects, including Kevin Durant, Donovan Mitchell, Kyrie Irving, Damian Lillard and Bradley Beal. Their marquee addition was Terry Rozier, who joined the team at the 2024 trade deadline.
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Jimmy Butler led the Heat to the playoffs in each of his previous five seasons, including two finals and one conference final. His absence from the team amid trade rumors has fueled speculation about his possible departure.
The Miami Heat aren't hungry to trade Jimmy Butler
Jimmy Butler turned pro in his sixth season with the Miami Heat. Barring injuries, he has lived up to his potential and played to give Miami a legitimate shot at regular season success despite trade rumors. However, the Heat are reportedly in no rush to trade him.
He still has a player option worth $52 million after this season, and it looks like both sides are using that in this tight 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.
Warriors and Rockets are more visible because they have pieces and assets to trade. But only time will tell if a deal can go through. Any potential bidder will have almost six weeks until the February 6, 2025 trade deadline to negotiate a package.
Edited by Arhaan Raje