Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat has made it clear to the team’s president, Pat Riley, that he wishes to be traded and will not be extending his current contract.

The 35-year-old player has indicated his intention to opt out of his contract at the conclusion of the season to prompt Riley to facilitate a trade, as reported by ESPN.

Earlier this month, Butler requested a trade but was subsequently suspended for seven games on January 3 for “detrimental conduct” by the Miami franchise.

Miami’s statement regarding Butler’s suspension noted, “His actions and statements indicate he no longer wants to be part of this team. Jimmy Butler and his representatives have expressed a desire to be traded, and we will consider trade offers.”

His suspension is set to end on Thursday, which will force Miami to make a decision on whether to trade Butler or reinstate him. Florida’s management will convene later this week to determine their course of action.

Although Miami has received trade offers for Butler, Riley has shown little urgency in proceeding, especially with the trade deadline approaching on February 6.

Coach Erik Spoelstra emphasized the need to “eliminate distractions” following Butler’s suspension, while player Tyler Hiro expressed a desire to focus on the team members present, stating that they have enough talent to succeed.

“Our goal was to regroup and escape the chaos. We want to unite as a team and concentrate on the players who are here. We have sufficient capability,” Hiro remarked after their victory against Portland.

Since Butler’s suspension, Miami has recorded three wins and three losses across six games, currently holding the seventh spot in the Eastern Conference standings with a record of 20 wins and 18 losses.

Butler has helped lead Miami to the NBA Finals in both 2019 and 2020 and has been a member of the Heat since 2023, where he was selected as an All-Star twice.

This season, Butler is averaging 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game.

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