After LeBron, Another NBA Star Joins Jimmy Butler’s Social Media Drama as Trade Market Crisis Worsens

From coloring his hair to the franchise he’s been linked with, to wearing Phoenix Suns-themed sneakers on the court, Jimmy Butler this time took to Instagram. The saga between Butler and the Miami Heat took another twist on Monday when the team announced an indefinite suspension without pay for Butler. This decision followed an incident where Butler walked out of practice. However, even with a major financial hit hanging over him, Butler is keeping his sense of humor intact.

Shortly after the suspension news dropped, Butler took to Instagram to share a classic clip from the ’90s sitcom Martin, where Martin Lawrence’s character, Martin, mocks his friend Tommy for not having a job. He also posted a photo of Tommy, played by Thomas Mikal Ford, in his Instagram story.

Butler didn’t stop there—he tagged Kevin Love, his teammate, who’s been having some fun with the situation too. Love posted a Training Day clip, keeping the jokes rolling. It looks like even Draymond Green couldn’t resist jumping in on the fun with Jimmy Butler’s Instagram post.

Amid all the wild drama, the Golden State Warriors star had to comment, and boy, did he find it hilarious! Green added a flood of laughing emojis “🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣”, clearly loving the whole thing.

Previously, it was LeBron James who was involved in another social media post. After Butler’s two-game absence ended with a win over the Nets, Love posted a clip from Casino, where Joe Pesci rants at Robert De Niro. Kevin Love captioned it, “How Jimmy’s pulling up on me after the suspension…” with a bunch of laughing emojis. Even LeBron joined in, adding some laughing emojis. It’s funny, because LeBron’s not exactly the type to jump in on these jokes, but he couldn’t resist.

The Miami drama surrounding the 6x All-Star has the NBA buzzing, and everyone is on edge to see how it plays out before the February 6 trade deadline. It’s like we’re all waiting for the next episode of a reality show, and no one knows what’s coming next. Miami’s move could flip the script, and all eyes will be on them.

There are, however, a few possible ways in which a trade could go down.

What are the possible ways Jimmy Butler could leave Miami?

The Miami Heat could use some clarity, especially as they sit at .500 and fight for playoff positioning. With Jimmy Butler, 35, in the mix, they’re 13-12 this season, but they’ve looked just as average when he’s been out. They’re even 4-5 when Butler’s been suspended, which doesn’t scream championship contender. So, it makes sense that Miami might look to trade him before the February deadline.

Butler’s preference? A move to Phoenix, possibly with Bradley Beal included in a deal. The Suns would need to offer Butler a long-term deal, something the Heat wasn’t willing to do. Beal’s hefty $50 million salary and no-trade clause complicate matters, but it’s not out of the question. Phoenix has already been maneuvering for future picks, so a deal could happen.

If Phoenix isn’t an option, Miami may pivot and ship Butler to a playoff team willing to roll the dice on a short-term rental. The Grizzlies or Rockets could be candidates, as both teams could use Butler’s two-way play. If ‘Jimmy Buckets’ opts out this summer, it could free up cap space for teams looking to build around their young cores.

Either way, Butler and Miami are at a crossroads. Miami needs to get something for him before the trade deadline, and Butler needs to prove he can still be the star he was. It’s a make-or-break moment for both sides.