Jimmy Butler rejoined the Miami Heat for practice on Tuesday, but did not deny a report from ESPN that his preference is to be traded. Butler said he’s “hoping” to play for the Heat on Wednesday against the New Orleans Pelicans.
“Does it matter?” said Butler when asked if he prefers a trade Does it matter?.. I honestly do not care about getting traded, where I’m supposed to go, who’s saying what…. All of that is out of my control anyway.”
Butler reportedly would prefer a trade to one of the Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks or Houston Rockets. Pat Riley has gone on record saying the Heat will not trade Butler. Butler was also asked if he will be content if he is not traded.
“I don’t know,” he said. “We will see. Only time will tell. I can’t tell you what’s going to happen come tomorrow. I appreciate the statement. But this is a business after all. I won’t have any hard feelings either way.”
Butler was then asked if it is in the interest of both sides to finish out the season, or have a trade by the deadline.
“I don’t know,” he said. “I don’t know. That’s up to Pat. He will do what’s best for the organization as they should. And as long as I’m happy. And right now, I’m happy. I’m in a good space. I’ve got my kids here. I’m healthy. I’m smiling. I promise you I’m happy.”
Butler was then asked if he wants to be with the Heat.
“That’s a good question. Who knows? I don’t. Right now, I’m here and I’m going to make the most of it. I am going to compete and I’m going to win. It’s a lot of talk, a lot of noise, which I’m cool with. It doesn’t bother me at all. I love that. I thrive with it. It keeps you all wondering, the world wondering. It’s good to be talked about. Even better to be wanted.”
