Jimmy Butler admits he likes the trade rumors swirling
Over the last several days, trade rumors have circulated around Miami Heat star forward Jimmy Butler.
The Phoenix Suns headline the group of teams Butler is interested in, including the Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets, and Golden State Warriors. The 35-year-old is believed to desire to join a win-now contender if he’s traded.
Butler commented on the persistent chatter by stating that he doesn’t mind the outside noise.
“I actually like it,” Butler said via ESPN. “It’s good to be talked about. I don’t think there’s such a thing as bad publicity — to a point.”
Despite missing much of the season due to injury, the six-time All-Star is putting forth a productive campaign averaging 18.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.7 assists while shooting 55 percent from the floor and 36 percent from beyond the arc.
Although he’s struggled with injuries over the last couple of seasons, he remains a strong offensive factor and a proven postseason commodity. He’s reached the playoffs in 12 of his first 13 seasons, including reaching postseason play five times with the Heat.
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Butler helped guide Miami to a pair of NBA Finals appearances and three Eastern Conference trips. In the playoffs, he holds career averages of 21.3 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.6 assists while shooting 46 percent from the floor and 34.7 percent from 3-point range.
Butler is in the second year of his three-year, $146.3 million deal with a $52.4 million player option for next season. His contract situation may come into play as he could be seen as a short-term option to help a team’s playoff push.
