Heat Suspend Jimmy Butler Without Pay for Seven Games, Will Seek Trade Partners

Jan 4, 2025, 12:18 AM

The Miami Heat have suspended star forward Jimmy Butler without pay for seven games due to multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team over the course of the season, particularly in recent weeks. The team announced that Butler's actions and statements have indicated he no longer wants to be part of the organization, and they will now listen to trade offers for the six-time All-Star. The suspension will cost Butler approximately $2.35 million in salary, forfeiting $346,543 per game. Some estimates place the total financial loss at $3.7 million. The suspension begins with tonight's home game against the Utah Jazz and includes the team's upcoming six-game West Coast trip, with Butler eligible to return on January 17 against the Denver Nuggets. This suspension places Butler at risk of falling below the NBA's 65-game eligibility threshold for season awards. The National Basketball Players Association is expected to file a grievance to dispute the suspension, but the process is unlikely to halt the disciplinary action.