Jimmy Butler requested a trade from the Miami Heat because he believed the franchise was moving forward without him, according to Marc J. Spears of Andscape.
Sources told Spears that Butler felt undervalued by the organization, leading to his decision to seek a fresh start elsewhere. His time in Miami saw him lead the team to two NBA Finals appearances while averaging 21 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game.
Tensions between Butler and the Heat escalated throughout the 2024-25 season, resulting in multiple suspensions for conduct detrimental to the team. He was first suspended for seven games in early January, followed by additional disciplinary actions later that month.
The final breaking point came on January 27, when Butler walked out of practice after learning he was being replaced in the starting lineup. Miami then suspended him indefinitely, keeping him sidelined through the NBA trade deadline.
On February 6, the Heat traded Butler to the Golden State Warriors as part of a five-team deal that included Andrew Wiggins heading to Miami. He also signed a two-year, $121 million contract extension with Golden State, where he now wears “Butler III” on his jersey to honor his late father.
Since joining the Warriors, Butler has averaged 16.8 points, 5.8 assists, and 5.6 rebounds in 14 games. Golden State has gone 13-1 with him in the lineup, surging to sixth place in the Western Conference with a 38-28 record.
