Star wing Jimmy Butler is currently in his sixth season with the Miami Heat after joining the team in the 2019 offseason. As a member of the Heat, the Marquette alum has played the best and most successful basketball of his career. With Miami, Butler is a two-time All-Star, a three-time All-NBA Team selection, and an MVP candidate. Additionally, with the Heat, Butler has developed a reputation as a playoff hero, leading the team to two NBA Finals appearances in 2020 and 2023. Butler, however, is potentially in the midst of a contract year. The Heat star has a $52.4 million player option for the 2025-26 NBA season. By opting out, Butler hits unrestricted free agency and can decide to join another team. While nothing is official yet, recent reports have made it clear that Butler’s decision may have already been made.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, “Butler intends to opt out of his deal” next summer.
Above all, though, he is believed to prefer a win-now title contender in any trade. Teams have also been informed that Butler intends to opt out of his deal in the offseason and become a free agent, sources said. The Heat have hovered around the play-in tournament over the last two seasons, and with Butler’s contractual status, they have been open-minded to trade inquiries.
Major Jimmy Butler Contract Decision Is Reportedly Imminent
Potential Jimmy Butler Landing Spots
Assuming Butler does become a free agent in the offseason, many teams will pursue him. In his report, Charania named the Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets, and Dallas Mavericks as teams who could have interest in him. Furthermore, in the past, teams like the Brooklyn Nets have been linked to Butler.
Despite being 35 and on the downslope of his career, Butler is still a valuable player. Through 17 games this season, Butler is averaging 19 points, 5.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 1.2 steals. Additionally, he is shooting 55.7% from the field and 36% from the three-point line. Not to mention that he is an incredible playoff performer who could help any contender vying for a championship.
Regardless, there is still the possibility of Butler opting out of his contract to sign a separate deal to remain in Miami. This season’s trade deadline is less than two months away. Butler will certainly be an interesting name to follow for the rest of the season.
The Last Word
Earlier this year, Butler made it clear he wants to stay in Miami.
“I feel at home, man. I really care about the city, I really care about the people in this city. Miami has embraced me. They’ve wanted me to bring them something they haven’t done since LeBron, D-Wade and C-Bosh. And I want to do that. So as soon as I get this knee back right, I’m right back on they [expletive] and everybody know it.”
It is unclear if anything has changed since then. Either way, we know Butler has appreciated his time in Miami up to this point. Unfortunately for him, there is a legitimate chance his stay in Miami does not last much longer.
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