NBA Trade Rumors: Jimmy Butler 'Made It Known' He'll Test FA 'No Matter What Happens'

Jimmy Butler is determined to test free agency regardless of a potential trade from the Miami Heat, according to ESPN's Brian Windhorst.

"He has got a player option in his contract for $52 million next year," Windhorst said on The Hoop Collective (47:30 mark). "He has made it known to the league, he intending to not pick that up. His position is that no matter what happens, he is going to be an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2025."

Butler and the Heat were unable to agree to a contract extension before the start of the 2024-25 season, putting his long-term future with the organization in jeopardy.

While he does have a hefty $52.4 million player option at his disposal, the 35-year-old is likely searching for a multi-year deal on his next contract.

With unrestricted free agency seemingly looming, Miami may trade Butler and receive some assets in return instead of watching him potentially walk during the summer. David Aldridge of The Athletic reported on Saturday that the Heat and the six-time All-Star "seem destined to part ways" via trade at some point during the 2024-25 season.

Butler's scoring total has dipped slightly compared to past years, but he's remained efficient while operating as a two-way force. In 18 starts this season, he's averaging 18.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.2 steals per game on 55.0/36.0/77.8 shooting splits.

Miami is currently in the midst of a four-game win streak, sitting at 13-10 on the season as a whole. It may be difficult for the Heat to move on from Butler if they continue to rack up victories, but a trade could be on the horizon if the team is still hovering around .500 as the Feb. 6 trade deadline approaches.

Even if the veteran ends the 2024-25 season in a new location, all signs are pointing towards him entering free agency.