Jimmy Butler Trade Rumors: NBA Insiders Think Star Will 'Most Likely' Stay With Heat

Miami Heat star forward Jimmy Butler has been rumored to be a potential trade candidate this offseason, but it sounds like some don't expect that to be the case.

According to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, "League executives are of the mind Butler will most likely remain with the Heat."

Butler has been the face of the Heat since he arrived in 2019, but his numbers slipped this season with averages of 20.8 points, 5.3 rebounds and 5.0 assists in 60 games. He missed the playoffs with a knee injury and Miami fell to the Boston Celtics in the first round in five games. He has not played over 65 games in any of his five years with the team, and those durability concerns will continue as he gets older.

The Athletic's John Hollinger reported earlier this month that "between [Butler's] declining play this season and the constant absences, there are increasingly loud whispers that his future might not be in Miami."

To further fan the flames of Butler being available on the trade market, team president Pat Riley raised some eyebrows when he was somewhat dismissive of negotiating a new deal with the 34-year-old even though he's eligible for a contract extension this summer.

"We don't have to do that for a year," Riley told reporters. We have not discussed that internally right now but we have to look at making that kind of commitment."

Some have floated the possibility of Butler being sent to the Philadelphia 76ers to reunite with star center Joel Embiid. However, it would be a surprise if Riley sends the six-time All-Star to another contender in the Eastern Conference.

Butler's status with the Heat will be one of the most intriguing storylines of the upcoming offseason.