Pat Riley released a statement in response to the ongoing trade rumors involving Jimmy Butler. On Christmas Day, it was reported that Butler prefers a trade from the Heat by the February 6th trade deadline. Riley is adamant in his statement that the Heat will not trade Butler.
"We usually don't comment on rumors, but all this speculation has become a distraction to the team and is not fair to the players and coaches," said Riley. "Therefore, we will make it clear - We are not trading Jimmy Butler."
Butler has been previously disappointed that the Heat didn't dispute reports that they were listening to trade offers.
After the Heat decided not to offer Butler an extension this past offseason, there has been speculation that he could eventually be traded or leave as a free agent during the 2025 offseason.