The six-time NBA All-Star Jimmy Butler, picked in the 2011 NBA draft by the Chicago Bulls, became one of the most promising small forwards in the NBA. Butler played six seasons for the Bulls before moving to the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2017 for one season, followed by a trade to the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018 and then ultimately joining his current team, the Miami Heat, in 2019. After playing five seasons for the Heats, it looks like Butler is looking for a way out of the "Road Warriors."
The 35-year-old recently admitted that he is not happy with the Heat and wants to look for other opportunities. Amid the circulating rumors that Heat might be trading him this season, Butler's recent statement has added fuel to the fire.
Butler requests a trade from the Heat
It was clearly evident from Butler's statement that the five-time All-NBA Team member is fed up with his current team, as he expressed that he would play for any team except for Miami. Butler's statement came after the Heat's 128-115 loss against the Indiana Pacers on Friday. In the post-match press conference, the basketball icon was asked what he is expecting to happen in the future, to which he replied that he wants to rekindle his passion for the sport.
"What do I want to see happen? I want to see me get my joy back from playing basketball and wherever that may be, we’ll find out pretty soon. I want to get my joy back. I’m happy here off the court, but I want to be back to somewhat dominant, I want to hoop and I want to help this team win. Right now, I’m not doing that." Jimmy Butler stated during the interview.
Replying to the question if he could find his joy back while playing for the Miami Heat, he replied, "Probably not."
Butler's relationship with the Florida-based team began when he was denied a contract extension that also resulted in his relationship hitting a rough patch with the team president, Pat Riley.
Amid Butler's comments, rumors are swirling about a potential trade to the Golden State Warriors, with fans largely in agreement. However, only time will reveal his next destination.