Why is Jimmy Butler suspended for two games by Miami Heat? Reason behind his second suspension explored
Less than a week since he returned to the court, Jimmy Butler has been suspended again by the Miami Heat. The veteran swingman was initially suspended seven matches by the Floridians for "conduct detrimental to the team" after saying he wanted to find joy in playing basketball again and indicating to the team he'd like to be traded.
"Through his actions and statements, he has shown he no longer wants to be part of this team," the Heat said in a statement on Jan. 3. "Jimmy Butler and his representative have indicated that they wish to be traded, therefore, we will listen to offers."
With Miami traveling to Milwaukee to face the Bucks tomorrow night, Butler missed the flight, prompting the Heat to suspend him for two more games. ESPN insider Shams Charania reported that Butler won't be available for the Heat's two-game road trip, as they go to Brooklyn to face the Nets on Saturday.
In three games played since his return, Jimmy Butler scored 18, eight and 13 points, against the Denver Nuggets, San Antonio Spurs and Portland Trail Blazers, respectively.
Jimmy Butler was fined $336,543 for each of the seven games he missed during the first suspension, mounting up to around $2.4 million. He's getting paid $48.8 million this season and has a player option worth $52 million for next season, but the swingman is trying to find a new team to sign a contract extension.
Where does Miami Heat stand on Jimmy Butler's trade request?
According to Shams Charania, the Heat are working to find a trade that pleases Butler, but they're also trying to get the best possible return for their star player. The Floridians reportedly want a combination of players who can impact their chances to win it all this season, draft capital, movable short-term salary and young pieces to add to the roster.
Upon his return, Jimmy Butler tried to move past the first incidents and focus on the task at hand.
"I guess it's basketball at this point," Butler said after last week's loss to the Denver Nuggets. "I know what I'm expected to do while I'm here and try to do that to the best of my ability, but we are where we are."
The Miami Heat aren't considered a contender in the Eastern Conference and this situation doesn't help their cause. Butler took them to two Finals in 2020 and 2023, but he's not looking to work his magic again.