Will Jimmy Butler play tonight against the Orlando Magic? Trade Candidate Status Reported on Heat (December 26)

Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat could not play against the Orlando Magic on Thursday. The six-time NBA All-Star had issues with the situation before the game and predicted they wouldn’t fit. Butler has missed the past two games with an undisclosed illness. His absence will be the eighth. The star forward averaged 18.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4.9 assists, shooting 55.2%. The Heat went 3-4 without Butler.

His unknown status for Thursday’s game comes at a crucial time, as he has been involved in numerous trade rumors. According to NBA official Shams Charania, Butler has not requested a trade. However, he is finally ready to step out of the heat. Charania also reported that Butler and the Heat disbanded due to the franchise’s inability to strengthen its supporting cast.

Over the past three seasons, Miami has missed out on several top prospects, including Kevin Durant, Donovan Mitchell, Kyrie Irving, Damian Lillard and Bradley Beal. Their tantalizing addition is Terry Rozier, who joined the team at the 2024 trade deadline.

Jimmy Butler has led the Warriors to the playoffs in each of his five seasons, including two appearances in the playoffs and the conference finals. His time away from the team amid trade rumors only added to the speculation surrounding his possible dismissal.

The Miami Heat have shown no urgency to trade Jimmy Butler

Jimmy Butler proved himself a pro in his sixth season at Miami Heat. Barring injuries, he has suited up and played to his potential to give Miami a legitimate chance at a successful regular season despite the trade rumors. It is said that the Powers are not in a hurry to trade him.

He still has a player option worth $52 million after this season, and both sides seem to be getting under the strain. If Butler leaves, he could move to the Western Conference. According to Shams Charania, Butler’s preferred landing spots are the Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets and Phoenix Suns.

The Warriors and Rockets have the pieces and assets to make a trade, so they have a better chance. However, only time will tell if the deal can come to fruition. Any suitor will have approximately six weeks to negotiate a package leading up to the Feb. 6, 2025 trade deadline.