Erik Spoelstra makes feelings clear about Jimmy Butler trade rumor
As trade season gets ready to kick off in the NBA, Jimmy Butler has been one of the most talked about players in the league. Following the All-Star forward appearing in rumors yet again, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra made his feelings known.
On Tuesday morning, NBA insider Shams Charania released a column with info from various teams around the league. Among the biggest pieces of information was his report that Miami is listening to offers for Butler.
Following practice, Spoelstra was asked his thoughts on the Jimmy Butler trade rumors. He isn't putting much focus into it and would rather zero in on the team at large. Spoelstra also addressed how rumors don't mean much, using Heat guard Tyler Herro as an example.
"I didn't mention anything, just like I didn't before. I think the biggest message is that fact that we're 3-0 right now, this past week, Spoelstra said. "The player that was rumored in so many trades and speculations the last three years – it seemed like every week – that player is still here and is Player of the Week. So that's really the only thing I'm thinking about."
Herro's name surfaced in rumors a lot over the past two seasons, most notably during the Damian Lillard saga. However, he remains in Miami and is putting up some of the best numbers of his career. The young guard is fresh off getting Player of the Week honors after averaging over 25 points and five assists.
Tyler Herro isn't fazed by Jimmy Butler trade rumors
Erik Spoelstra wasn't the only member of the Miami Heat who isn't putting much stock into the latest rumors regarding the Jimmy Butler trade rumors. Tyler Herro also downplayed the situation after Tuesday's practice.
While speaking with the media, Herro was asked about his All-Star teammate appearing in trade rumors. He claimed he didn't know about the story, saying that he wasn't on his phone before practice. Herro quickly changed the subject, citing that the overall vibes of the team were strong.
"I got to check my phone still this morning," Herro said. "I don't know what was said. The vibes felt good in here today, so I don't know. I don't know what you're talking about."
Since being drafted by the Heat in 2019, Herro has built a good bond with Jimmy Butler. The two have also had great success on the court together, reaching the NBA Finals on two separate occasions.
The Heat might be downplaying Butler popping up in rumors, but it's something that's going to be hanging over their heads for the coming months. As an All-Star talent in the final year of his contract, there will be endless speculation about him being moved.