The Miami Heat suspended Jimmy Butler indefinitely on Monday, marking the third suspension for the player this season. The decision came after Butler walked out of practice earlier that day when informed he would be moved from the starting lineup to make room for Haywood Highsmith. In an incident following his departure, Butler attempted to use his credit card to complete a $107 purchase, only for it to appear declined, prompting someone nearby to joke about his current employment status.
"You're currently unemployed so your card doesn't work, sir. Sorry."
Butler, a six-time NBA All-Star, has faced a tumultuous time with the Miami Heat this season. Despite averaging 17.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in just 25 games, his relationship with the team has soured, leading to trade speculations. Reports from ESPN's Shams Charania on December 10 indicated that the Heat were open to trading Butler. Furthermore, the player himself expressed a preference for a trade out of Miami on January 2.
The financial implications of Butler's suspension are significant, with the player facing a loss of $532,737 per game. The timing is particularly crucial as the NBA's trade deadline looms on February 6. The suspension appears to have affected more than just his on-court presence; it humorously seemed to extend to his credit card as well. On Tuesday, Butler posted a video on his Instagram story showing him attempting to use his American Express card, but it seemed to decline. Despite the circumstances, Butler cracked a smile before trying to complete the purchase.
The decision to bench Butler in favor of Haywood Highsmith underscores the team's shifting dynamics and strategic decisions. The repeated suspensions and potential for a trade highlight ongoing tensions between Butler and the Miami Heat management, casting uncertainty on his future with the team.
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