The suspension of Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler has come to an end.

The situation between Butler and the Heat continues as the team contemplates its next steps. According to the Heat, Butler has expressed a desire to be traded ahead of the February 6 trade deadline.

The Heat suspended Butler for seven games on January 3 due to “multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team throughout the season, especially in recent weeks.”

“His actions and comments indicate he no longer wants to be part of this team. Jimmy Butler and his agent have made it clear they want to be traded, so we will entertain offers,” the team stated in a press release.

This announcement followed a week after Miami Heat president Pat Riley stated, “Typically, we don’t address trade rumors, but the ongoing speculation has become a distraction for the team and unfair to our players and coaches. So, let’s be clear – We are not trading Jimmy Butler.”

As the situation stands, a trade appears increasingly likely. The Heat are set to face the Denver Nuggets on Friday night, and with Butler’s suspension behind him, the team must now determine its next move.

Will Jimmy Butler Play Tonight?

Butler was not included in the injury report and started against the Nuggets on Friday. In Miami’s 133-113 defeat, he scored 18 points, shooting 7-for-15, along with three rebounds and two assists. The Heat will host the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday.

Jimmy Butler Trade Gossip: Conversations Heat Up

The Heat have been fielding calls and considering offers, but they have yet to seal the right deal. With the February 6 trade deadline fast approaching, discussions are becoming more intense, according to a source familiar with the negotiations who spoke to YSL News Sports on the condition of anonymity.

The Heat are keen to eliminate the distraction this situation has caused, and both Riley and Butler, who are strong-willed figures, may prefer to part ways for a fresh start.

Potential Teams for Jimmy Butler’s Trade

The Phoenix Suns are rumored to be among the teams interested in Butler, although this would require the Heat to take on Bradley Beal, who has two years and $110.7 million left on his contract, along with a no-trade clause. The Suns are willing to offer Butler another lucrative contract.

Other teams that may be keeping an eye on Butler include the Memphis Grizzlies, Milwaukee Bucks, and Sacramento Kings.

Jimmy Butler’s Performance Stats

In 22 games, Butler has averaged 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.2 steals, shooting 55.2% from the field, 37.5% from three-point range, and 78.8% on free throws. While his offensive efficiency is solid, it reflects a lower role, as Butler is averaging his lowest points and making the fewest shots since the 2013-14 season, which he is not pleased about.

Details on Jimmy Butler’s Contract

Butler’s contract extends through the 2025-26 season, with $52.4 million owed to him next season. However, he has a player option for next season that allows him to opt for free agency in the upcoming summer.

Could the Heat Hold on to Jimmy Butler Until the Deadline?

There is speculation that Miami may opt not to trade Butler if they can’t find a satisfactory deal. However, this approach carries risks. Butler could choose to play out the final year of his contract, which could put pressure on the Heat and complicate the situation further. The Heat would prefer to avoid such an outcome.

(This article has been updated to include the latest information.)