Agent Jimmy Butler calls offseason rumors ‘disrespectful’

The Miami Heat’s offseason started earlier than expected after losing to the Boston Celtics in the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Pat Riley’s postseason comments about Jimmy Butler sparked a lot of buzz, whether it was a trade or re-signing him after this season. Riley gave no indication that he wanted to trade Butler.

It’s safe to say that Butler is not a fan of these rumors. His agent, Bernie Lee, said the 13-year veteran finds these hypotheses “disrespectful.”

“The gift of sports is that things are largely absolute and there is no need to live in hypotheticals,” Lee told the Miami Herald. “The absolute is the season ahead and the work that needs to be done.” .Jimmy left this summer and prepared for the task ahead, I think we all see that.Speculating about the future is irrelevant and disrespectful to the moment and this group has been the foundation of his success. He’s locked into that process and routine and is ready to attack this season with the group around him,” said Lee.

Butler is focused on the moment and ready to lead his team. Looks like he’s stuck this year. He can deal with the contract matters later.

After this year, Butler will have a $52.4 million player option next summer.

Ryan Diamond is a contributor to Miami Heat On SI. He can be reached at [email protected] and @RyanDiam15 on X