Jimmy Butler wants a trade to literally anywhere but the Grizzlies

The trade saga involving Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat took another twist on Thursday, as Marc Spears provided new ones details on the star striker’s preferences during ESPN’s NBA Today.

“I was told today by someone close to the situation that his wish list just came out of Miami … with the exception of Memphis,” Spears said.

Spears also noted Butler’s long-term intentions, stating, “He wants to finish his career wherever he goes.

The report follows Butler’s second suspension of the seasonwho was surrendered by the Heat on Wednesday after missing the team’s flight to Milwaukee. The The Heat, now 21-21, were about to face the Bucks (24-17) on Thursday night without their star forward, further escalating tensions between the players and the organization.

Jimmy Butler’s trade request and return performance

Butler’s exclusion of Memphis from his trade request adds another layer to the ongoing saga between the six-time All-Star and the Heat. While no specific reason explains his opposition to joining the Grizzlies, the exclusion underscores the fractured relationship between Butler and the Miami front office.

Butler requested a trade earlier this season, with sources citing frustration over his rejected contract extension and the perceived lack of significant improvements to the Heat’s lineup. These problems, along with his recent suspension, reflect the growing pressure between Butler and the franchise.

Returning from a seven-game suspension, Butler averaged 13.0 points, 5.7 assists and 3.3 rebounds while shooting 45.2% from the field over the last three games. While those numbers are below his usual production, they highlight ongoing adjustments and challenges as tensions between Butler and the organization persist.

A pivotal moment for Butler and the Heat

At 35, Butler remains one of the league’s premier two-way players, capable of lifting a team into championship contention. Spears’ report that Butler wants to end his career at his next destination suggests the forward is looking for long-term stability as he approaches the twilight of his career.

The Heat, meanwhile, face increasing pressure to address the situation as the Feb. 6 trade deadline approaches. Butler’s desire to leave Miami, along with his strong stance against moving to Memphis, adds urgency to the decision-making process for Miami’s front office.

With Butler out of the lineup and uncertainty surrounding his future, the Heat are moving through a crucial stretch of the season. Whether Butler’s trade request leads to a resolution or whether tensions persist, his future remains one of the most significant stories in the NBA this season.