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Miami Heat president Pat Riley has addressed recent trade rumors surrounding star player Jimmy Butler, asserting that the team has no intention of trading him. Riley made it clear that Butler is a crucial part of the Heat's plans and that they are fully committed to building around him for the future. Riley's statement comes in response to speculation that Butler could be on the move after the Heat's early playoff exit. Despite some reports suggesting otherwise, Riley's words seem to indicate that Butler will remain in Miami for the foreseeable future. As one of the league's top players, Butler's presence on the Heat roster is essential to their success. Riley's comments should provide reassurance to Heat fans that their team is focused on contending with Butler leading the way.

The Miami Heat have given an update on the Jimmy Butler trade speculation.

In a press release from team president Pat Riley, the franchise will not be trading Butler, who has been the talk of trade rumors for most of the 2024-25 NBA season.

“We usually don't comment on rumors, but all this speculation has become a distraction to the team and is not fair to the players and coaches,” Riley wrote. “Therefore, we will make it clear - We are not trading Jimmy Butler.”

Statement from Pat Riley

"We usually don't comment on rumors, but all this speculation has become a distraction to the team and is not fair to the players and coaches. Therefore, we will make it clear - We are not trading Jimmy Butler."

— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) December 26, 2024

Earlier in the week, ESPN's Shams Charania reported that the 35-year-old wanted to leave Miami before the NBA trade deadline.

Now, it’s clear the team has no intention of parting ways with Butler. The six-time NBA All-Star is expected to opt out of his contract after the season and hit the free agency market.

There was talk of Butler potentially getting traded to the Warriors, but nothing materialized.

Through 20 games this season, Butler is averaging 18.5 points on 55.2 percent shooting, with 5.8 rebounds and 4.9 assists in 31.4 minutes.

Golden State has been pursuing trades to bolster the roster recently, looking to grab another big-time scorer if possible. Now, the Warriors will have to look elsewhere for a trade.

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