Jimmy Butler’s agent, Bernie Lee, fired back on social media after NBA insider Shams Charania reported that the Miami Heat star is open to being traded.
Charania claimed Butler was considering teams like the Phoenix Suns, Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets, and Golden State Warriors as potential destinations.
Charania’s report, which cited Lee as the source, was met with swift and scathing criticism. Lee took to X (formerly Twitter) in a series of posts to vehemently deny the claims.
“Alright listen. I gave you a pass yesterday because I was busy but if you don’t stop putting my name on your complete and utter made up bullshit…” Lee began, calling the report “fabricated.”
In his tweets, Lee dismissed the idea that he would advocate for a trade, stating it would not benefit Butler or the position he represents. He sarcastically suggested Charania claim he was hacked or blame AI for writing the tweet.
The controversy comes as the Heat face uncertainty with their six-time All-Star. Butler, 35, is in the third year of a four-year deal and holds a player option for the 2025-26 season. With no contract extension offered this offseason, Butler could leave Miami next summer without the team receiving any compensation.
Despite the trade rumors, Butler remains a key player for the Heat, averaging 19 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in 32.1 minutes per game this season. Miami sits fifth in the Eastern Conference standings with a 13-11 record, relying on Butler’s leadership and defensive prowess to maintain their position.
The Heat’s refusal to extend Butler’s contract has led to questions about their long-term commitment to the veteran star. If Miami cannot secure a trade or extension, they risk losing him in free agency for nothing. This has fueled speculation about whether the franchise is exploring trade options before the season’s end.
Charania’s report named the Suns as a preferred destination, adding intrigue to a potential partnership between Butler and Phoenix’s Big Three of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. Other rumored teams, like Dallas and Golden State, also present compelling fits, given Butler’s two-way abilities.
However, Lee’s public denial complicates the narrative. His emphatic response suggests that any trade discussions involving Butler may not be as advanced as reported. Still, the uncertainty surrounding Butler’s future continues to hover over the Heat’s season.
