These days, Pat Riley is a man of few words.
But when the president of the Miami Heat speaks, you listen.
Franchise superstar Jimmy Butler has had his name thrown into trade rumors over the last month, as reports of Butler wanting to move on from Riley and the Miami franchise have surfaced.
Whether the validity of the reports are true or not have been up for debate.
Butler’s agent pushed back on ESPN insider Shams Charania’s original report of Butler wanting out.
Charania doubled down on Christmas Day, reporting that Butler indeed prefers a trade out of Miami, and would like to be sent to either Golden State or Phoenix.
Apparently Riley had heard enough.
The president of the franchise released a rare statement shutting down all Butler rumors.
“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 stated.
“Therefore, we will make it clear – We are not trading Jimmy Butler.”
Riley made it crystal clear, no ifs, ands, or buts about it.
However, these statements should always be taken with a grain of salt.
While Riley isn’t one to speak on rumors, making this statement noteworthy, a team could easily come along and offer Miami a trade package for Butler that Riley simply can’t refuse.
Never say never, even if Riley just did. The trade deadline is February 6.
So not until the clock strikes 4:00PM EST on February 6th, will Riley’s statement be taken as true.
All eyes will remain on Butler for the next month and a half.
Miami is currently at 14-13, good for sixth in the East. Not bad, but by no means great.
And by no means up to Riley’s standard and expectations
Butler has been with the franchise since 2019, leading them to two Finals appearances. He has been worth every penny for Riley and the historic franchise, but now at 35 years old, serious conversations will be had.
But as Riley put it, he has no plans on trading his superstar.
That is until an offer comes along and blows him away.