The Miami Heat will intensify efforts to trade Jimmy Butler after the veteran forward was suspended without pay for an indefinite period for walking out of practice on Monday.
It is Butler’s third suspension in recent weeks and he has missed nine of the Heat’s last 12 games as a result. He was due to return for last night’s game against the Orlando Magic before his latest indiscretion.
Miami did not put a limit on how long he will be out but said the suspension would last at least five games which would see him not take to the court prior to the trade deadline on February 6.
A team statement read: “The suspension is due to a continued pattern of disregard of team rules, engaging in conduct detrimental to the team and intentionally withholding services.
“This includes walking out of practice earlier today.”
Reports suggested Butler walked out after learning he would be replaced in the starting lineup by Haywood Highsmith.
Butler mocked his situation on Instagram by comparing himself to a character in a 90s comedy who, despite arguing to the contrary, didn’t have a job.
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Despite Butler’s absence, the Heat hit back from a 14-point deficit in the final quarter to beat Orlando 125-119 in double overtime.
Coach Erik Spoelstra said: “What it means right now is just we proved to ourselves that we have a tremendous amount of grit.
“You know, and you gain confidence from that.”
