Jimmy Butler is not planning to sign a contract extension with the Miami Heat, per Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium. But it isn't just the Heat, as Butler reportedly will not sign a long-term deal with any team before his opt-out in 2025.
“Jimmy Butler, he's going to play out next season under his current contract with the Heat,” Charania said. “I'm told he will not be signing an extension with the Heat or any other team ahead of his opt-out in 2025 free agency. This clears up any notion of a trade demand out of Jimmy Butler. He intends to play out next season.”
Charania added that Butler wants to have a big 2024-25 season and set himself up for a lucrative payday next offseason. Butler's extra motivation will put the league on notice.
Butler's name was previously mentioned in trade rumors. There was even speculation that the Heat star may be seeking a change of scenery. According to Charania, Butler is content in Miami for now. And he could end up signing a massive contract with the Heat next offseason depending on his opt-out decision.
The 34-year-old was limited to 60 games played during the 2023-24 season because of injuries. He averaged 20.8 points per outing on 49.9 percent field goal and 41.4 percent three-point shooting. Butler added 5.3 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game.
Jimmy Butler set to enter 2024-25 with extra motivation
Butler will turn 35 years old in September. We have seen players continue to perform at a high level in their mid-late 30's, but it is fairly uncommon. Oftentimes, even stars begin to decline in their mid-30's. Butler has no intention of doing so, as he wants to earn a big payday next offseason.
If Butler enjoys a huge season then he will land what he is looking for in his next contract. Although, some teams may still be hesitant to give him a four-year deal given his age. Nevertheless, Butler has extra motivation heading into 2024-25.
It will be interesting to see if the Heat are interested in offering Butler an extension. He has emerged as the team's best player in recent years. Butler even led Miami to the NBA Finals in 2023. At 35 years old, though, the Heat may display hesitancy.
With that being said, they probably wouldn't mind signing Butler to a long-term deal next year. He could potentially retire with the Heat. Miami would possibly be able to contend for years to come as well with Butler leading the way, assuming he is able to continue playing at a high level.
For now, Jimmy Butler and the Heat will focus on the offseason and preparing for the 2024-25 campaign. Miami fell short of their goals this past season, so perhaps the added motivation discussed earlier will translate to the entire team. The Heat have displayed an ability to upset the odds in the past, so there is no reason to count them out.
Of course, the moves they make this offseason will go a long way towards determining how they fare in 2024-25.
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