The National Basketball Players Association has rallied against Jimmy Butler’s seven-game suspension imposed by the Miami Heat.
The Heat slapped Butler with a hefty suspension and revealed it will listen to offers for its star forward after the 35-year-old made it clear he wants to leave the franchise. Miami stated the suspension was due to multiple cases of sub-par conduct.
In response, the NBPA issued a furious statement. It read: “The 7-game suspension imposed tonight by the Miami Heat on Jimmy Butler is excessive and inappropriate, and we intend to file a grievance challenging the discipline.”
According to ESPN however, the complaints process is not exactly a short one and is unlikely to prevent Butler’s 7-game ban. On Friday evening, the Heat issued a statement confirming their decision.
It read: “Jimmy Butler has been suspended for seven games for multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team over the course of the season and particularly the last several weeks. Through his actions and statements, he has shown he no longer wants to be part of this team. Jimmy Butler and his representative have indicated that they wish to be traded, therefore, we will listen to offers.”
The Heat made their move 24 hours after the 128-115 loss to the Indiana Pacers. Butler struggled in the game, registering just nine points. Head coach Erik Spoelstra even moved the six-time NBA All-Star to point guard in a bid to change his and the team’s fortunes. It didn’t work.
Speaking after the defeat, Butler was asked when his joy will return on the court for the Heat. “Probably not,” he replied What do I want to see happen? I want to see me get my joy back from playing basketball.
“Wherever that may be well find out here pretty soon but I want to get my joy back. Im happy here, off the court, but I want to be back to somewhere dominant. I want to hoop and I want to help this team win. Right now, Im not doing that.
The comments were swiftly followed by reports Butler had requested a trade away from the Floridian franchise. With the trade deadline Feb. 6, 3 pm ET, Butler will have some time to assess his options. The Golden State Warriors, Denver Nuggets, and Dallas Mavericks are all potential landing spots for the 35-year-old, as discussed by Mirror Sports US.
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