Jimmy Butler to Miss Two More Games as Heat Deny Trade Speculation

The Miami Heat star remains sidelined due to illness recovery and reconditioning, while team president Pat Riley dismisses reports of a potential trade.

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.