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[Saba Sports News] Jimmy Butler is determined to force a trade from the Miami Heat, and it seems he may be inching closer to achieving that goal.
After serving a seven-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the team, Butler returned to action on Friday night. While he has reportedly cooperated since his reinstatement, he has not backed down from his trade request.
Earlier this week, Shams Charania reported that Butler has repeatedly emphasized his desire to leave Miami. Charania added that the Heat have made progress in discussions with other teams about a potential trade.
“Jimmy Butler has tripled down on his trade request,” Charania said. “Earlier this month, he expressed it directly to Pat Riley. Then last week, he reiterated it to team owner Micky Arison and CEO Nick Arison. The Heat have reportedly had productive talks on a possible trade this week.”
Moving Butler is no small task, given his massive contract, which includes $49 million this season and a $52 million player option next year. Charania noted that a deal could involve two, three, or even four teams.
Meanwhile, Butler remains on the court and playing, but everyone within the organization is fully aware of the situation.
The Heat publicly stated last month that they would not trade Butler, but the six-time All-Star’s persistence seems to have shifted their stance. Miami is now actively exploring deals, and rumors suggest a dark horse team may have entered the Butler sweepstakes.
Butler has also reportedly discouraged certain teams from pursuing him as he aims to influence his next destination.