Jimmy Butler's immediate future could still be away from Heat

Jimmy Butler is back with the Miami Heat. He played 33 minutes in the team's loss to the Denver Nuggets on Friday and another 28 minutes against the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday. 

The wantaway star will likely remain a key figure for Erik Spoelstra for as long as he remains part of the roster.

However, Butler's return to Miami's rotation doesn't mean both sides aren't still pushing for a trade. According to a report from Marc Stein on Sunday, Miami is still interested in parting way with the disgruntled forward.

"Butler is indeed an active member of the Heat once again, but league sources stress that Miami is determined to keep exploring trade possibilities between now and the Feb. 6 trade deadline amid real concerns that there is a considerable amount of season left to navigate to co-exist for two parties that would prefer an immediate separation," Stein reported.

Butler has previously forced his way out of two situations: first, with the Chicago Bulls and then again with the Minnesota Timberwolves. If he remains on the Heat's roster beyond the Feb. 6 trade deadline, his presence could derail the rest of the season. 

Unfortunately for Miami, finding a team willing and able to absorb Butler's monster $48.7M contract will be anything but easy. A potential deal will likely include three or four teams, yet the more teams involved, the trickier things become, as everyone wants to ensure they're getting fair value. 

The Phoenix Suns are the most logical landing spot for Butler, assuming Bradley Beal can find a new home. Even then, though, Pat Riley will ensure Miami receives significant compensation in the form of a ready-made replacement. 

Butler's future will remain a hot topic until he's either traded or the trade deadline passes us by. If it's the latter, then Miami are in for a tough ride between now and the summer, when they could potentially lose Butler for nothing.