Even though all signals lead to a split between the Heat and Jimmy Butler in the 2025 offseason, the team is adamant about keeping the superstar wing for another year.
According to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, the Heat have no intention of dealing Butler, despite the possibility of losing him for nothing as a free agency next year.
“Butler originally wanted an extension from the Heat this summer, but then changed his mind after Miami did not offer one,” Jackson pointed out. “He now intends to play out the season without signing an extension with any team and will become a free agent in the summer of 2025.” According to a source, the Heat are not shopping Butler.
The Heat are clearly taking a risk by keeping Butler, who still has trade potential and may bring them significant assets to pair with the likes of Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro.
The present team is not prepared to compete in an Eastern Conference that has improved dramatically this offseason. While the Knicks and Sixers made significant roster moves, the young Magic are expected to improve after getting postseason experience, and the Bucks will seek to rebound from a poor season. And, of course, the champion Celtics aren’t expected to miss a beat.
As a result, the Heat are widely expected to finish in the middle of the pack this season. Their best approach to competing with the top clubs in the East One option could be to move Butler and start over.
Butler, on the other hand, is taking a risk by refusing to demand a trade from the Heat. According to various insiders, the six-time All-Star is betting on himself as a free agent next year rather than moving quickly to his new home this year. There are two impediments on his path: age and health. Butler turns 35 in September and has missed a total of 65 games in his last three seasons in South Beach.
Pat Riley, the Heat’s president, questioned Butler’s endurance in May when explaining why his team refused to extend his deal. When Riley made those statements, it seemed inevitable that the Heat would trade him. Instead, they’re rolling the dice with Butler.
Pat Riley, the Heat’s president, questioned Butler’s endurance in May when explaining why his team refused to extend his deal. When Riley made those statements, it seemed inevitable that the Heat would trade him. Instead, they’re counting on Butler, who is in his contract year, to have a miraculous season and lead them back to the NBA Finals, like he has twice before.
The Butler-Heat narrative will be widely followed during the 2024-25 season.
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