Jimmy Butler's teammate's reaction speaks volumes about trade rumor
Heading into the 2024-25 campaign, Heat forward Jimmy Butler was coming off year where he missed the entirety of the playoffs after Miami qualified via the play-in tournament. With one final guaranteed year on his contract, team president Pat Riley made it clear this summer an extension for Butler would largely center around his availability.
Although Butler still has plenty of time before deciding whether or not to decline his player option, he's found his name in trade rumors. Earlier this week, ESPN's Shams Charania reported Miami is open to listening to offers on Butler but the stars would have to align on any deal given Miami's recent surge.
On the flip side, Butler is reportedly interested in going to Houston, Dallas or Golden State if a deal were to materialize.
After Tuesday's practice, Tyler Herro was asked about the situation, and from the sounds of things, he and the team aren't paying much attention to the rumors.
“I gotta check my phone still this morning. I didn’t know what was said. Vibes felt good in here today, so I don’t know.”
While Miami is reportedly open to hearing offers, the team has won three in a row and seven of its last ten. The franchise may not be ready to pull the trigger on a trade right now given that winning stretch.
Erik Spoelstra weighs in on Miami Heat latest Jimmy Butler trade rumors
Herro wasn't the only one weighed in on the rumors of a Butler trade this week. While speaking to media members Tuesday following practice, coach Erik Spoelstra reacted to the situation.
Heat beat reporter Ira Winderman relayed a quote from Spoelstra about the rumors. The Heat coach referenced how over the past three years, Herro has been in trade talks. The young guard is leading Miami in scoring, and was the Eastern Conference Player of the Week.
"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, and 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."
It seems Herro and Spoelstra aren't overly concerned with trade buzz. With the Heat set to face off with the Toronto Raptors Thursday, the franchise has its sights set on making it four wins in a row as it looks to climb up the Eastern Conference standings.