Is Jimmy Butler tonight against Toronto Raptors? Latest on Heat superstar's availability (Dec. 12)
Jimmy Butler is expected to suit up for the Miami Heat when they take on the struggling Toronto Raptors at the Kaseya Center on Thursday. The forward has been one of the marquee stars garnering headlines as trade deadline chatter continues to garner momentum. The Heat mainstay comes into the matchup amid links to multiple suitors as the side looks to build on their solid winning streak.
Butler is listed as probable ahead of the Thursday evening showdown as he continues to deal with his right knee soreness. The 35-year-old has played in 17 games so far this season due to his injury. His appearance against the Raptors serves as a massive two-way boost as the side seems to be turning a corner at the right time.
Jimmy Butler trade rumors: Heat star linked to multiple Western Conference contenders
With reports of Jimmy Butler on the trade block doing the rounds, rumors mills were busy churning out a list of potential suitors. At the time of writing, the Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets, and the Phoenix Suns were listed as teams interested in his services. Earlier, NBA insider Shams Charania had stated:
"The Heat are open to listening to offers for Butler and making a deal if the proposal is right, league sources told ESPN, and Butler's agent, Bernie Lee, has indicated in league circles that Butler is open to destinations such as two of the Texas teams (Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks) and the Golden State Warriors."
Butler has a $52.4 million player option for the 2025-26 season that he can choose to decline to become a free agent next season. This season, he continues to be a reliable contributor averaging 9.0 points on 55.7 percent shooting, 5.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists in 17 games.
The veteran is in his sixth season with Miami after inking a deal in 2019. The Heat have seen success since as he led the side to two Eastern Conference titles. This season, the unit continues to remain competitive as they are 12-10 at the time of writing. They are fifth seed and trail the fourth-placed New York Knicks by three wins.
With trade rumors heating up and the Warriors making it clear they are looking to add a big name alongside Steph Curry, there is a possibility that the Dubs might be aggressive in their pursuit of Jimmy Butler.