Dec 16, 2023; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler (22) dribbles the ball up the court against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
The Miami Heat are considering an even harsher stance on Jimmy Butler, according to a new report.
The Heat are considering characterizing Butler’s suspension as “refusing to provide services,” according to NBA reporter Chris Haynes. The Heat had previously suspended Butler for conduct detrimental to the team.
By changing the reason and using stronger language, the Heat would be able to double Butler’s fines, Haynes noted.
Butler has demanded a trade from the Heat, who responded by handing him a seven-game suspension for detrimental conduct. Further reports have emerged since then that paint Butler in a negative light, though his camp has pushed back against them.
If the Heat were to push for a bigger fine, the NBPA would likely have something to say about it. It would also further poison the relationship between Butler and the Heat, though at this point, that is probably already unsalvageable.
