With Jimmy Butler likely to opt out of the final year of his contract after this season, ESPN NBA Insider Brian Windhorst urges fans to keep a close eye on the Miami Heat and any potential moves involving their star wing. In the latest episode of the Hoops Collective podcast on September 3, Windhorst highlighted that Butler is gearing up for a big season as he aims to secure one last max contract in the NBA.
Windhorst emphasized that Butler is highly motivated to deliver exceptional performances next season, especially after failing to secure a contract extension from the Heat last summer.
“It’s the perfect setup for Jimmy to have a standout year and land one final deal,” Windhorst remarked on the podcast. He also noted that under Pat Riley’s leadership, the Heat have a history of moving on from players when they believe the time is right.
Miami Might Explore Trade Routes for Butler
Windhorst hinted that Butler cannot afford a subpar season, as Heat president Pat Riley is known for trading players when their performance starts to decline.
Butler averaged 20.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game during the 2023-24 regular season, impressive by NBA standards. However, he missed the first-round series against the Boston Celtics due to an MCL injury, which significantly impacted the Heat’s chances as they were eliminated in five games.
In a post-exit interview, Butler claimed that Miami would have defeated both the Celtics and the New York Knicks had he been healthy for the postseason. Riley, however, wasn’t pleased with Butler’s comments, advising him to “keep his mouth shut.”
Trade Rumors Surround Butler Once Again
Leading up to NBA free agency in July, there were rumors about a possible reunion between Butler and the Philadelphia 76ers. According to Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Sixers were prepared to offer Butler a max contract if he pushed for a trade from Miami. However, Riley’s reluctance to entertain such trade rumors shut down the speculation.
Butler has repeatedly stated his intention to play for Miami this season. Yet, just as trade rumors seemed to fade, new ones emerged, hinting at potential drama as Butler approaches free agency in 2025, where he could opt out of a $52 million player option.
Brian Lewis of the New York Post reported that the Brooklyn Nets could be a potential free agency destination for Butler in 2025, with sources close to Butler indicating his interest in the Nets. Although a trade to the Nets is unlikely with training camp just weeks away, Butler seems set to start his 14th NBA season with the Miami Heat.