The Miami Heat and Jimmy Butler are at a crossroads as the veteran forward contemplates his future with the team. According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, Butler would prefer to sign an extension and remain with the Heat. However, Heat President Pat Riley has not shown interest in making that happen.
Jimmy Butler would prefer to sign an extension in Miami, but Pat Riley has not shown interest in making it happen, per @WindhorstESPN
(h/t @FirstTake )
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) December 12, 2024
Butler has expressed his desire to stay in Miami, a sentiment he has held since last summer. Despite his preference, Riley has been hesitant to commit to a long-term extension.
Riley’s reluctance stems from concerns about Butler’s availability and injury history. Butler has only played 70-plus games twice in his 14-year career and has averaged 58 games per season in his first five seasons with the Heat.
Riley has been clear about his stance on the extension.
“It’s a big decision on our part to commit those kinds of resources unless you have somebody who’s going to be there and available every single night,” Riley said in an interview last spring.
This cautious approach reflects the Heat’s need to balance financial commitments with player availability.
With the trade season approaching, speculation about Butler’s future has intensified. Teams like the Golden State Warriors, Phoenix Suns, and Dallas Mavericks have been mentioned as potential landing spots for Butler. Despite the rumors, Butler’s impressive stats this season—19.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game—make him an attractive option for several teams.
