According to multiple sources, Butler has grown disenchanted for several reasons, primarily the Heat’s reluctance to give him a max extension through the 2026-27 season. Barring a change of heart, he now is intending to become a free agent next summer instead of exercising his $52.8 million player option for 2025-26.

MIAMI (AP) — Jimmy Butler plans to play for the Miami Heat on Wednesday. And after that, who knows. The good news for the Heat: Butler declared himself healthy again after what he described as a fairly severe illness for more than a week and said he will return to the lineup when Miami hosts New Orleans on New Year’s Night.

Jimmy Butler didn't give a definitive answer when asked if he wanted to remain with the Miami Heat organization on Tuesday. "That's a good question,"