The story of Jimmy Butler and the Heat has taken yet another turn.
Less than 24 hours after he said he was “probably not happy” to continue playing for the Heat, the team on Friday suspended him for seven games for conduct detrimental to the team. A punishment was imposed.
Additionally, the team now says it will listen to trade offers — after team president Pat Riley said outright that Miami had no intention of chasing the 35-year-old Butler out of town. Just over a week.
“Jimmy Butler has been suspended for seven games for multiple instances of conduct detrimental to our team during the season, particularly in recent weeks,” the Heat said in a statement. “Through his actions and statements, he has shown that he no longer wants to be a part of this team.
“Jimmy Butler and his agent have indicated that they would like to be traded, so we will listen to offers.”
ESPN reported on Thursday night — shortly after Butler told reporters after Miami's loss to the Pacers that he was open to a trade and willing to play elsewhere.
“While we typically do not comment on rumors, all of this speculation is distracting to our team and unfair to our players and coaches,” Riley said in a statement released by the team on Dec. 26. This was said in a statement released on the 26th. To be clear, we are not trading Jimmy Butler. ”
After Thursday's game, the third time this week he didn't play the fourth quarter, Butler said he was trying to find “joy” on the basketball court again.
“I want to see him get the joy of playing basketball back. Wherever that ends up, we'll see right away,” Butler said. “I'm happy off the court, but I want to get back to being dominant. I want to hoop and I want to help this team win. I'm not doing that right now. ”
When asked in a follow-up question whether that “joy” could be found in Miami, he replied, “Probably not.”
The six-time NBA All-Star is averaging 17.6 points and 4.7 assists per game this season.
