NBA/Miami Heat suspend Jimmy Butler Indefinitely amid team discipline issues

The Miami Heat have indefinitely suspended forward Jimmy Butler following what the team described as a « continued pattern of disregard for team rules and conduct detrimental to the team. » This marks the third suspension for the six-time NBA All-Star in January alone, as disciplinary concerns continue to overshadow his season.

The Heat announced that Butler’s latest suspension, which is without pay, will last a minimum of five games.

The decision came after the 35-year-old reportedly walked out of a team practice on Friday.

Earlier in the month, Butler faced suspensions for similar disciplinary issues, including missing a team flight, ruling him out of nine games prior to this latest action.

Amid the controversy, Butler took to Instagram, sharing a clip from the TV show Martin featuring a joke about being jobless, fuelling further speculation about his future with the team.

The Heat had previously indicated they are open to trade offers for the veteran forward.

Despite Butler’s absence, the Heat managed an impressive 125-119 double-overtime victory over the Orlando Magic on Monday night.

Tyler Herro led Miami with 30 points and a season-high 12 assists, while Bam Adebayo contributed 26 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists.

As Miami navigates Butler’s uncertain status, their focus remains on maintaining momentum in a tightly contested NBA season, with other key players stepping up in his absence.