Rumors that star forward Jimmy Butler wants out of Miami have been swirling for weeks, leading to the Heat releasing a statement saying they would not trade him because it got in the way.
Now, the team reversed course a week later, acknowledging in a separate statement on Friday that Butler had asked to be transferred and will work to accommodate that request.
In the same statement Friday, the Heat announced Butler had been suspended for seven games “due to multiple instances of conduct that was detrimental to the team during the season and particularly in recent weeks.”
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM
Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler warms up before Game 4 of the NBA Finals against the Denver Nuggets at Caseya Center in Miami on June 9, 2023. (AP Photo/Wilfried Lee)
Butler said Thursday that there was no “joy” in playing basketball in Miami and that he likely won't find it again with the Heat.
“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 are open to offers. I’m going to tilt it.” Heat said on Friday..
Butler's agent had previously shut down ESPN's reports that Butler wanted to be traded, but it appears the opposite was always the case.
Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler leaves the court after his team's victory over the Boston Celtics in Game 6 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals at TD Garden in Boston on May 27, 2022. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)
Jimmy Butler's next team odds: Will star guard remain in Miami past the trade deadline?
Butler will not be in attendance for Saturday's home game against the Utah Jazz and will play six games after that, including games against the Sacramento Kings, Golden State Warriors, Utah Jazz, Portland Trail Blazers and Los Angeles Clippers. will not accompany the expedition. And the Los Angeles Lakers.
In theory, the earliest Butler could play again for the Heat is Jan. 17 at home against the Denver Nuggets, but that will likely be the last time he plays in Miami.
Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat takes a shot during Game 2 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals against the Boston Celtics at FTX Arena in Miami on May 19, 2022. (Michael Reeves/Getty Images)
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Butler is averaging 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.7 assists per game in his sixth season with the Heat. He appeared in the NBA Finals twice with them, but lost both times.
Follow Fox News Digital X sports broadcastplease subscribe Fox News Sports Huddle Newsletter.
