Heat’s President Pat Riley Uncertain About Offering An Extension to Forward Butler

MIAMI, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 27: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat poses for a photo with president Pat Riley during his introductory press conference at American Airlines Arena on September 27, 2019 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Butler is likely to ask for a two-year extension worth up to $113 million this summer covering the 2025-26 and 2026-27 seasons.

Riley said in a recent end-of-season press conference that they do not yet know how the team will react to that potential request.

Renowned for his elite versatility on both ends of the court, Butler has delivered spectacular moments during his duration with Miami, particularly in the playoffs.

Still, the 35-year-old missed 100 regular-season games across the Heat’s five seasons, 100 out of a possible 389 appearances – 25.8 percent. This season, Butler was sidelined with a knee injury during the play-in, and he missed the ensuing first-round series against Boston, which Miami lost in five games. With Butler, the Heat will have 268 victories in five seasons, fifth in the NBA, and a Finals appearance.

Riley’s concern is not limited to Butler’s standing. Miami used 37 starting groups over 89 games this season, including three play-in games. A total of 18 different players started at least one match this season, a constantly changing group. Herro missed 40 matches, butler missed 22, and other injuries forced the team to call up G-League stars and revive other famous people. Key factors affecting the team’s performance. Only rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. and captain Bam Adebayo participated in more than 70 regular-season matches.

The frequent rotation necessitated an assessment in the offseason. Riley, now 79, has spent 29 years with the Heat, the majority as president and a few as coach. Miami has the third-highest regular-season winning percentage in the NBA (.569), as only San Antonio ranks higher, with.628. Miami has the third-most playoff games among NBA teams with 161 appearing in that span.