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[Saba Sports News] Miami Heat icon Tim Hardaway Sr. is standing by his former team amidst ongoing drama involving star player Jimmy Butler.
The Heat recently suspended Butler for seven games, citing “conduct detrimental to the team,” though they didn’t disclose specifics.
Hardaway, speaking on SiriusXM NBA Radio, claimed Butler’s December absence against the Orlando Magic was dubious. The team cited a “stomach bug,” but Hardaway alleges Butler was seen dining and socializing at Prime 112, a popular Miami steakhouse.
“[Jimmy Butler] let those guys down by not playing in Orlando and then out kicking it somewhere,” Hardaway said. “People were calling me, saying, ‘Man, he’s not even playing in Orlando. He’s at Prime 112 hanging out.’”
Despite Butler’s absence, the Heat narrowly defeated the undermanned Magic 89-88, led by Tyler Herro’s 20-point performance.
As Butler has formally requested a trade, speculation grows about whether Pat Riley will honor the request. A Western Conference team is reportedly the frontrunner to acquire him if a deal materializes.