The Miami Heat look set to trade Jimmy Butler out of the team. But there is one shocking decision as it pertains to the former All-Star that can’t be ruled out.
The Miami Heat and Jimmy Butler look like they’re going part ways. Butler publically demanded a trade last week, and all hell broke loose within the organization.
The Heat immediately suspended Butler for his comments in a press conference. And in the statement, announced that they’d be taking offers.
Much like his stint with the Timberwolves, Butler’s time with the Heat is going to end quite poorly. But there may be a fork in the road for the former All-Star.
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All the rumors right now suggest that Jimmy Butler will be gone in four weeks time. But there is no guarantee of that.
The Athletic’s Sam Vecenie reported that the possibility of Butler sticking around is still looming. In fact, sources he spoke to suggest that it is very much on the table.
“I also started to wonder whether Miami calls Butler’s bluff and rides out the rest of the year with him on the roster.”
“By doing so, the Heat could enter June with him on the books, and either get him to opt in to accept a trade somewhere or allow him to opt out and move on.”
“That’s what the LA Clippers did this past summer with Paul George, and league sources believe it’s a real possibility that shouldn’t be discounted.”
This would mean that the Heat would let Butler’s contract run out, and let him be a free agent. However, there is a risk, as Butler has a $52 million player option that he could take in an act of petty revenge.
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At this point, it can’t be understated just how bad a look it would be for the Heat if they kept Butler against his will.
Pat Riley and the front office already have a bad reputation for being anti-player. And if they keep Butler just to prove a point, attracting free agents in the future will be very difficult.
Furthermore, they’re only making things harder for themselves if they keep Butler, as they run the risk of losing him for nothing in free agency.
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