The Miami Heat will face off against the Orlando Magic on Monday night and the biggest name in question is Jimmy Butler. After months of ifs and buts, the Heat fans are still uncertain of watching their favorite player grace the court. And for the Magic game, they are again in the dilemma.
As of now, Butler is not listed on the injury report for the Heat’s Monday matchup. Butler has recently completed a two-game suspension stemming from repeated violations of team rules, including missing a flight. His suspension ended after Saturday’s game, paving the way for his potential return to the court tonight at 7:30 p.m. ET.
However, the situation remains uncertain. Despite being cleared to play, it’s unclear whether Butler will actually take the floor against the Magic. Following his previous suspension, he returned to play three games but showed a lack of effort. And that was an off-show from him.
Jimmy Butler is expected to return to the Miami Heat tomorrow, per @IraHeatBeat pic.twitter.com/QiHw337uFE
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) January 26, 2025
Although, Butler’s time with the Heat appears to be dwindling, especially after he requested a trade at the beginning of January. Miami has honored his trade request while trying to strike a deal before the deadline on February 6. With significant financial implications stemming from his suspensions, Butler’s future in Miami seems uncertain. Fans will need to tune in tonight to see if he can rejoin the team as they seek to improve their current record of 22-22.
Also Read: 10 NBA Teams Who Could Get An Instant Boost By Trading For Superstar Jimmy Butler
Heat Won’t Send Jimmy Butler Home With Pay
Miami is currently dealing with a turbulent situation with forward Jimmy Butler. Jimmy has recently been suspended for two games, marking his second disciplinary action this month. Despite the ongoing tensions between Butler and the Heat’s front office, the team has decided not to send him home while continuing to pay his salary.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
According to reports, the organization remains opposed to this course of action as they look to resolve the issues before the fast-approaching trade deadline on February 6. Butler’s previous seven-game suspension came at a significant cost, totaling approximately $2.4 million in lost wages. And the recent two-game suspension adds another estimated $700,000 to that tally.
Jimmy Butler is making $50 million a year, and the Miami Heat don’t want to give him a contract extension when he has 1 year left on his current deal. Shaq’s defending Butler. I can’t believe it. pic.twitter.com/465GNcDkDN
— Jason Whitlock (@WhitlockJason) January 25, 2025
As Anthony Chiang and Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald reported, the National Basketball Players Association is planning to file a grievance to dispute the suspensions. And if that happens, it could prolong the matter for up to a year. And while the Heat attempt to fulfill Butler’s trade requests, they continue to resist sidelining him with pay.
Also Read: Jimmy Butler Breaks Silence On His Miami Heat Future Following His Return From Suspension
