Jimmy Butler’s turbulent January took another turn as the Miami Heat suspended their six-time All-Star forward for the second time in three weeks, citing repeated breaches of team rules.
Just days after returning from a seven-game suspension, Jimmy Butler has found himself back in hot water with the Miami Heat. The 35-year-old missed the team’s flight to Milwaukee, prompting the franchise to impose a two-game ban, sidelining him for crucial matchups against the Bucks and Nets.
“We have suspended Jimmy Butler for two games for [a] continued pattern of disregard of team rules, insubordinate conduct, and conduct detrimental to the team,” the Heat announced in a statement, signaling growing frustration with their star player’s behavior.
Butler’s first suspension earlier this month stemmed from “multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team.” Although he returned to action last Friday, this latest incident could reignite trade rumors, with Miami reportedly open to offers following his initial ban.
Since joining the Heat from Philadelphia in 2019, Butler has been a cornerstone of the team’s success, including leading them to the NBA Finals in 2020. However, his off-court conduct now threatens to overshadow his on-court contributions.
This season, Butler has averaged 17 points, 4.8 assists, and 5.2 rebounds across 25 appearances, a noticeable dip from his career-best performances.
