Will Jimmy Butler Stay or Go? Miami Heat’s Trade Dilemma Nears Deadline

The Miami Heat are reportedly exploring trade options for Jimmy Butler as the February 6 trade deadline approaches, but finding a suitable deal has proven difficult, according to Steve Bulpett of Heavy.

As Bulpett reported, rival executives and league sources expressed skepticism that Miami will find an offer they deem acceptable, citing Butler’s age, contract demands, and history of team disruptions.

Challenges in Moving Jimmy Butler

Butler, 35, is averaging 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game this season while shooting 55.2% from the field and 37.5% from three-point range. Despite his efficiency, his scoring average is the lowest in over a decade, and questions about his availability have persisted. Butler has appeared in just 22 of Miami’s first 36 games and has a history of frequent absences, which reportedly concerns the organization.

According to Bulpett, Butler’s desire for a contract extension this summer is a sticking point, as Miami remains hesitant to commit to a long-term deal. Butler has stated he plans to decline his $52.4 million player option for next season, but league insiders believe he may reconsider if no acceptable trade materializes.

“It’s more difficult than people think,” one team’s head of basketball operations said. “Jimmy’s 35 and doesn’t have much value. Miami won’t take on bad contracts, and the teams that might want him aren’t offering what Miami is looking for.”

NBA Teams Linked to Jimmy Butler

One potential destination for Butler is the Phoenix Suns, who have struggled this season and were linked to him by league sources. However, the Heat reportedly rejected offers that included Bradley Beal, whose contract Miami views as a long-term hindrance.

According to Bobby Marks of ESPN, Miami remains firm in its trade demands, making a deadline deal less likely. Appearing on Sirius XM NBA Radio, Marks suggested both sides might remain together for the rest of the season.

“There is a strong likelihood Jimmy Butler is on the Heat roster past the Feb. 6 trade deadline and he picks up that $52 million player option,” Marks said. “Both sides need each other. Miami needs Butler, and Butler needs Miami.”

Inside the Miami Heat’s Stance

Bulpett reported that Heat president Pat Riley briefly took Butler off the trade market in late December after receiving underwhelming offers. However, trade discussions reportedly remain ongoing, with Miami open to bringing Butler back for their January 17 home game if no suitable deal is found.

The Heat may also revisit trade scenarios during the offseason if Butler remains on the roster. “I think it would be more likely for him to opt into the contract, then see where you stand as far as a trade standpoint,” Marks added.

Outlook

While Butler continues to work out at Kaseya Center during his seven-game suspension, trade discussions are expected to persist. Miami’s firm stance on what it seeks in return, combined with Butler’s contract and age, makes a trade before the deadline uncertain.

For now, Butler and the Heat appear poised to stay together, with the offseason potentially presenting another opportunity for a resolution.