Overview

• Jimmy Butler will not play in the Miami Heat's upcoming road games against the Atlanta Hawks and Houston Rockets, marking his fourth and fifth consecutive absences.
• The Heat attribute Butler's continued absence to 'return-to-competition reconditioning' following an illness that sidelined him earlier this month.
• Reports suggest Butler prefers a trade before the February 6 deadline, but Heat president Pat Riley issued a statement firmly denying any plans to move the six-time All-Star.
• Sources indicate Butler has not formally requested a trade, though tensions reportedly stem from unresolved contract extension negotiations last summer.
• Butler, averaging 18.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.9 assists this season, is expected to rejoin the team for their January 1 home game against the New Orleans Pelicans.