'Jobless' Jimmy Butler trolls Miami Heat after being suspended for third time

Jimmy Butler took to Instagram to poke fun at his latest suspension by the Miami Heat.

This marks the third suspension for the 35-year-old this month. Butler had just returned from a two-game suspension for missing a team flight and previously served a seven-game ban for repeated conduct issues.

Before the game against Orlando Magic, Miami Heat indefinitely suspended forward Butler on Monday after he walked out of a practice session. It was reportedly in response to being told he would come off the bench.

In a statement posted on X, the Heat confirmed the suspension, citing a "continued pattern of disregard for team rules, conduct detrimental to the team, and intentionally withholding services." The team added that the ban would last no fewer than five games.

Butler, a six-time All-Star in his 15th NBA season, played a pivotal role in leading the Heat to the NBA Finals in 2020 and 2023, losing to the Los Angeles Lakers and Denver Nuggets, respectively. However, tensions between Butler and the team have escalated, with the player openly requesting a trade earlier in the season.

Initially hesitant, the Heat has since indicated a willingness to consider offers for Butler ahead of the NBA’s mid-season trade deadline on February 6. The suspension will last through the deadline, with the team reassessing its stance if Butler remains on the roster.

Teammate Tyler Herro acknowledged the ongoing uncertainty. “It kind of feels normal now at this point. Nothing is guaranteed, so we just have to roll with whatever cards we’re dealt,” Herro said.

As of now, the Heat sits eighth in the Eastern Conference standings, with its playoff hopes hanging in the balance.

Miami Heat fans have had a mixed reaction to Jimmy's third suspension, with some criticising Butler's actions while others praising his supposed 'trolling skills.'