Jimmy Butler’s words in his post-game press conference against the Pacers may have been an over-exaggeration. In the initial report of Butler’s trade request, ESPN insiders Shams Charania and Brian Windhorst reported that Butler is open to playing anywhere other than Miami. However, senior NBA insider Chris Haynes revealed that Butler’s camp has informed teams including the Grizzlies to not trade for the Heat star.
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Butler is still serving his seven-game suspension from the Heat for actions detrimental to the team. Haynes’ new report provides more information on the deadlock between the six-time All-Star and Heat executive Pat Riley. He said,
“League sources have relayed to me that the Memphis Grizzlies along with a few other teams have received word that Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler has no interest in being traded there.”
Sources: A few teams have been informed not to trade for Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler. #haynesbriefs pic.twitter.com/200eV8gjxk
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) January 7, 2025
Potentially acquiring the Heat star would catapult Memphis into true title contention, so it makes sense why they were interested in acquiring him. However, for reasons unknown he is unwilling to go to the Grizzlies. Haynes didn’t reveal any of the other teams that also received this news.
Regardless, this doesn’t rule out the Grizzlies as a trade option. Riley ensures that he always gets his way and that includes receiving the best package for Jimmy. Even if that means sending him to a team he doesn’t want to go to.
Pat Riley won’t do any favors for Jimmy Butler
In recent years, most franchises have done right by their star player by trading them to a preferred destination. The Raptors traded Pascal Siakam to the Pacers once the two-time All-Star approved of the destination. The Nets traded Kevin Durant to the Suns, which were one of his preferred destinations. However, Pat Riley and the Heat aren’t most franchises.
Riley doesn’t let his personal feelings or fan sentiments play into deals, as he has a reputation for driving stars away. He did it to Dwyane Wade, he did it to Shaquille O’Neal, and he will have zero problems doing it to Butler too. Riley’s focus is making sure the Heat get the best possible package so Miami can remain a competitive team in the East.
Regardless, the Heat need to make a decision soon, or else they’ll find themselves on the outside looking in when it comes to playoff contention.
