JIMMY BUTLER is in trouble again with the Miami Heat as his trade saga continues.
The superstar missed a team flight and the franchise hierarchy have not taken kindly to it.
GettyJimmy Butler has been hit with another team suspension after missing a flight[/caption]
Butler, 35, has now been suspended two games.
A Heat statement read: “We have suspended Jimmy Butler for two games for [a] continued pattern of disregard of team rules, insubordinate conduct and conduct detrimental to the team, including missing today’s team flight to Milwaukee.”
According to ESPN, Butler had planned to join the Heat on Wednesday night on his own.
The suspension means he will now miss the games on Thursday against the Bucks and Saturday at the Brooklyn Nets.
Butler, a six-time NBA All-Star, had only just returned from a seven-game suspension.
That suspension, which started on January 3, came after a statement read: “Through his actions and statements, he has shown he no longer wants to be part of this team.
“Jimmy Butler and his representative have indicated that they wish to be traded, therefore, we will listen to offers.”
ESPN also report that the Heat are continuing to look for a trade deal that accommodates Butler’s exit.
However, they seek a combination of players that will help them win now, draft picks, and team-friendly salaries that give them flexibility. The deadline looms on February 6.
Speaking before the latest suspension on Friday, Butler said: “I guess it’s basketball at this point.
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“I know what I’m expected to do while I’m here and try to do that to the best of my ability, but we are where we are.”
Butler was then asked if he would still be with the team on February 7.
He responded: “We’re playing a lot of ‘what-ifs,’ ain’t we?”
“I’m going to hoop.”
Butler had played three consecutive games in between the two suspensions, averaging 13 points in 29.3 minutes.
The former Chicago Bull has a list of preferred destinations – and during some December games his hair colour matched those of the teams he wanted to move to.
Earlier this week, he also wore shoes that matched the colour scheme of the Phoenix Suns.
Butler is in the last year of his guaranteed contract and has a player option worth $52 million next season.
He is eligible for a two-year, $113 million extension but Pat Riley and the Heat have not offered such a deal.
Butler has also made it clear he is not happy with his current role in the Heat offense.