LeBron James passes MJ, but faces cost of being a mercenary

Jimmy Butler was suspended seven games for the Miami Heat earlier this month for “conduct detrimental to the team,” but the specifics of that conduct was not disclosed. Sources tell Jake Fischer that there had been multiple instances where Butler skipped morning shootarounds and also insisting on private flights separate from Miami’s team charter.

The crux of the issue between the Heat and Butler appears to be financial as they elected not to offer him a two-year extension, but the loss of several of his best friends on the team has contributed to a deteriorating chemistry. Kyle Lowry, Gabe Vincent, Max Strus and Caleb Martin have all left the Heat since their run to the Finals in 2023.

“A lot of the reason for the success of the Miami Heat was the chemistry they had,” said one league figure with knowledge of that team’s inner-workings.

“Those were [Butler’s] guys,” said another NBA source familiar with the Heat’s thinking.

Butler’s suspension ends this week and the team is preparing for his return as no trade is expected to materialize at this point.