Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler is currently serving a seven-game suspension following his trade request. This move has sparked a reaction from the NBA Players Association (NBPA), condemning the suspension. However, according to former NBA player Tim Hardaway, Heat president Pat Riley took steps to defend the decision.
Hardaway revealed on SiriusXM NBA Radio that Riley provided the NBPA with evidence to support his decision to suspend Butler. “I know [Pat Riley] gave [the NBPA] a 10-page letter, and I know he gave them some film to show them why he suspended him,” Hardaway said.
Butler’s suspension followed his public trade request, which came after a failed negotiation for a contract extension with Miami. The 35-year-old had hoped for a two-year extension before the start of the 2024-25 season, but the Heat chose not to offer it. His frustration reportedly boiled over, leading to the trade request and suspension.
In his commentary, Hardaway also criticized Butler’s response to the situation. He argued that Butler’s reaction to not receiving the extension was an overreaction.
“It’s all about authority saying no to somebody. And these guys can’t take rejection… If you can’t take rejection because [everyone] has been saying, yes, yes, yes to you, now you’re upset and the world is coming to an end,” Hardaway explained, via Barry Jackson. “Oh, I can’t play because he’s not giving me the money. No! Go out and damn play! You’re under contract.”
The situation arose from Butler’s desire to secure a more favorable long-term deal with the Heat. The All-Star forward currently holds a $52 million player option for the 2025-26 season, but his hopes for a new extension were dashed when the Heat did not offer the two-year deal he was seeking.
In Hardaway’s view, the issue goes beyond just the money. He believes it’s about how professional athletes handle rejection and expectations.
