MIAMI – Jimmy Butler’s name has recently surfaced in trade rumors, but the Miami Heat star is focused on basketball as his team rides a three-game winning streak.
ESPN reported Monday that the Heat are listening to trade offers for Butler, who has reportedly provided the team with his top three preferred destinations.
The rumors come amid speculation that Butler is seeking a long-term contract extension, which Miami has yet to offer.
When asked about the rumors at practice, Butler’s teammate Tyler Herro kept his response light. “I didn’t know that. Whatever. I gotta check my phone still this morning,” he said.
Head coach Erik Spoelstra downplayed the trade chatter, emphasizing the team’s recent success and camaraderie.
“Vibes felt good in here today,” Spoelstra said. “It’s been our best, most consistent stretch of the season, so anything else, any other narrative — I don’t care, and nobody should because most of this stuff has just been all like a bunch of gibberish.”
The Heat’s core trio of Butler, Bam Adebayo, and Tyler Herro has led the team during its recent surge with wins over the Cleveland Cavaliers, Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Lakers.
Miami will look to extend its winning streak in a matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday.