In Jimmy Butler's return from his seven-game suspension, the Denver Nuggets blew out the Miami Heat 133-113 on Friday night.
Videos by FanBuzz
Jimmy Butler showed zero excitement during team intros. 😳pic.twitter.com/RLbGImmsT1
— NBACentel (@TheNBACentel) January 18, 2025
And the whole situation certainly seemed awkward, as those who don't know Butler requested a trade from the team, but is currently in a stand-off with Heat President Pat Riley.
Jimmy Butler has ARRIVED 💥 pic.twitter.com/eAclzw86Jw
— NBA TV (@NBATV) January 18, 2025
In view of the game, Butler finished with 18 points (7-for-15 FG), three rebounds and two assists.
Although Butler suited up in a Heat uniform once again, at this time, it is believed that their relationship is 'unfixable.' However, fans will seemingly get to see Butler play at least up until the February 6 NBA trade deadline.
"Nothing has changed on his trade request."
—@ShamsCharania on the situation between Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat. pic.twitter.com/vbaXOOc6bE
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) January 18, 2025
Prior to tip-off, Butler released a message to everyone, saying "I'm back," which was mimicking Michael Jordan's un-retirement during the 1994-95 season, when he rejoined the Bulls.
Jimmy Butler did the MJ press release announcing his return 😤
(via @BernieoLee) pic.twitter.com/T4anDOGCuT
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) January 17, 2025
JIMMY BUTLER WEARING THE MJ 45 “I’m back”
WE GOT OUR JOY BACK LETS CHECK BALL pic.twitter.com/PEysHBtGLf
— Emo Jimmy (@HeatCulture13) January 17, 2025
Before the game, Butler posted himself wearing the iconic #45 jersey, and after the game he was also seen with it on.
Jimmy Butler says he was told to respond "no comment" when asked about his trade request.
Said he plans to hoop and if he's still on the team after the trade deadline "I'll hoop."
Added he won't say anything but eventually "the truth with come out."
Here's the full session… pic.twitter.com/wiVuLynSMN
— Wes Goldberg (@wcgoldberg) January 18, 2025
Then in the postgame interviews, Butler was asked what would happen if he was still on the team following the trade deadline.
"We're playing a lot of 'what-ifs,' ain't we?" Butler responded. "I'm going to hoop."
When questioned about the trade request in general, Butler said he was told to say 'no comment,' so that's what he said.
The 6x All-Star also noted that it's nothing personal with his teammates.
"It felt good to get out there and compete and actually run around with these guys," Butler said. "As much as everybody may think, I don't got a problem with these guys. These guys are cool. They're my friends... My beef is not with them and never will be. Never has been. But it did feel good to get out there and play some basketball."
And the 35-year-old star also left fans with a cryptic message when he said, "the truth will come out."
All in all, it appears the deep-rooted issues stem from a contract dispute, with Butler (set to earn $49 million this year) reportedly upset that the Heat did not offer him a two-year/$113 million extension this past offseason.
Considering that Butler helped lead the franchise to two NBA Finals appearances (2020, 2023), it is quite surprising the estranged relationship he has with Riley and the front office.
Related: Miami Heat Suspend Jimmy Butler 7 Games For 'Multiple Instances Of Conduct Detrimental To The Team'
