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On Christmas Day, it seemed like the idea of a Jimmy Butler trade before the Feb. 6 deadline was DOA. Pat Riley released a statement saying the Heat were not going to trade Butler, and the buzz coming out of the G-League Showcase (a gathering of NBA front office people) was that this deal was likely too hard to pull off during the season because of the luxury tax restrictions, it would be a summer thing.
Three days into 2025, Jimmy Butler trade talk is back on the front burner as Butler — who looked like he was quiet quitting on Miami Thursday night — turned up the heat on the talks. Let’s break down all the latest.
What did Jimmy Butler say to the media after last night’s loss to the Pacers?
If there was any doubt Butler was pushing hard for a trade, these comments after an unimpressive (quiet quitting?) nine-point, four-assist outing summed it up (quote via ESPN).
“I want to see me getting my joy back playing basketball. Wherever that may be, we’ll find out here pretty soon,” Butler said. “I’m happy here off the court, but I want to be back to somewhat dominant, I want to hoop and I want to help this team win, and right now I’m not doing it.”
When asked if he can get his joy back on the court with the Heat, Butler responded: “Probably not.”
Butler looked like a guy going through the motions against the Pacers — a one-legged 3 for fun? — and willing to be disruptive. He has done this before, most notably becoming such a distraction in Minnesota — there was the legendary practice where he led four end-of-the-bench guys against the starters, didn’t take a shot, talked a lot of smack and won — that the Timberwolves had to trade him.
The question becomes, is he willing to try to make the Heat that uncomfortable? Would that work on Pat Riley and Miami? It may not, and worse, those actions would further depress his trade value.
How old is Jimmy Butler?
He is 35 years old and will turn 36 before training camp opens next season. This is his 14th season in the league.
Latest Jimmy Butler trade rumors and news
Butler’s comments echoed a report that he and his agent have requested a trade out of Miami — and he’s…
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Author : NBC Sports
Publish date : 2025-01-03 21:40:00
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