Tensions between Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat appear to be mounting. Butler has openly expressed his desire for trade, and the team has acknowledged its openness to listening to offers. Many believe Butler will decline his $52.4 million player option for the 2025-26 season to test free agency. However, ESPN analyst Bobby Marks shared a different perspective.
During his recent appearance on SiriusXM NBA Radio, Marks suggested the situation may not escalate as expected, and Jimmy might opt into his $52.4 million player option. Marks further explained why Butler might choose to remain with Miami for now.
“I think there is a strong likelihood that he’s on this roster when we get past February 6th and he picks up that $52. I know it’s been reported that he’s going to decline that option and become a free agent. But when you have $52 million on the table, you have to have a home to go to,” Marks said.
“Miami needs Butler, and Butler needs Miami.”@BobbyMarks42 tells @BGeltzNBA and @SamMitchellNBA there is a world in which Butler and the Heat reconcile. pic.twitter.com/SDStVmYLOV
— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) January 11, 2025
“So I think it would be more likely to opt in to the contract and then see where you stand as far as from a trade standpoint here,” he added.
Bobby Marks Weighs In On Jimmy Butler’s Suspension
The Miami Heat recently suspended Jimmy Butler for seven games due to conduct detrimental to the team. Bobby Marks also weighed in on the situation, expressing concerns about Butler’s mindset once the suspension is lifted.
“The big question is when the suspension is lifted, where is his mindset as far as where he is? Because that’s going to play a big role as far as the next couple of weeks. And if his mindset isn’t there and we kind of revert back to what we’ve had, they could just suspend him again,” Marks said.
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As the February 6 trade deadline approaches, Miami’s front office will need to determine whether to rebuild the relationship or explore other options. Fans are eagerly waiting to see whether Butler can restore harmony with the team.
