Depending on how you process any recent Heat news, that latter point feels correct, given some of Butler’s relationships with players on Miami’s roster. That is especially true of younger contributors who have grown to see Butler as a mentor no matter his team-related drama or level of candor.

Many former NBA players have sided with Jimmy Butler in his dispute with Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra and team president Pat Riley. The latest was four-time

Butler was first suspended by the Heat on Jan. 3 for seven games “for multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team over the course of the season and particularly the last several weeks. Through his actions and statements, he has shown he no longer wants to be part of this team.”