The Jimmy Butler era of Heat basketball appears to be nearing its end.
After five and a half seasons and two trips to the Finals, Butler has made it clear he no longer wants to be part of the organization. Following a loss to the Pacers on Jan. 2, Butler doubted his ability to rediscover his joy on the court while wearing a Miami uniform, setting the stage for things to unravel.
Shortly after Butler’s media session, ESPN’s Shams Charania and Brian Windhorst reported that Butler indicated he would like to be traded and “is open to playing anywhere other than Miami.”
As both parties appear poised for a split, The Sporting News will keep you up to date on the latest chatter surrounding Butler and the trade market.
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Jimmy Butler trade rumors tracker
Jimmy Butler requests trade and ‘is open to playing anywhere other than Miami’
Date: Jan. 2
Source: Shams Charania and Brian Windhorst, ESPN
After losing to Indiana, Butler “indicated” to the franchise that he would like to be moved.
According to Charania and Windhorst, Butler does not have a list of favored destinations and “is open to playing anywhere other than Miami.” The report adds that his decision was impacted by Heat officials’ implication that Butler did not play his hardest during the team’s win over the Pelicans on Jan. 1.
Heat issue statement reaffirming commitment to Butler
Date: Dec. 26
Source: Miami Heat
In response to trade rumors surrounding Butler, Heat President Pat Riley issues a definitive statement indicating the franchise will not be engaging in trade talks.
We usually don’t comment on rumors, but all this speculation has become a distraction to the team and is not fair to the players and coaches. Therefore, we will make it clear – We are not trading Jimmy Butler.
Jimmy Butler ‘prefers trade’ out of Miami
Date: Dec. 25
Source: Shams Charania, ESPN
During the NBA Christmas Day slate, Charania reports Butler “is believed to be ready for his exit” from Miami.
Butler’s desire to move on reportedly stems from failed negotiations on a contract extension during the summer of 2024. Butler, 35, has a player option for the 2025-26 season and seeks more long-term security.
Charania lists the Suns, Warriors, Mavericks and Rockets as Butler’s preferred destinations at the time.
Jimmy Butler contract
Butler signed a three-year, $146.4 million contract extension with the Heat in 2021. This season, he is making $48.8 million as part of that extension.
Butler has a $52.4 million player option for the 2025-26 season but is believed to be opting out of the final year to secure more long-term flexibility on what could be his final major deal. He will turn 36 in September.
| Season | Age | Salary |
| 2024-25 | 35 | $48,798,677 |
| 2025-26 | 36 | $52,413,394 (PO) |
| 2026 | 37 | UFA |
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