The Miami Heat faced a setback in their first-round series against the Boston Celtics, as they were without Jimmy Butler due to injury. The absence of Butler was keenly felt as the Celtics secured a relatively easy 4-1 series victory over a depleted Heat team.
The Game 5 blowout loss highlighted Miami’s dependence on Butler, emphasizing the significant impact of his absence on the team’s performance.
Following the series loss, rep
orts indicate that Butler will be seeking a maximum contract extension from the Heat this offseason. According to Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald, Butler, who will turn 35 in September, is expected to demand a two-year extension worth around $113 million.
Currently, Butler’s contract runs through 2026, with him earning over $100 million in the next two seasons. However, with a player option for the 2025-26 season, Butler could potentially become an unrestricted free agent next summer. To prevent this scenario, the Heat will need to meet Butler’s demand of $135 million, indicating a yearly salary of approximately $45 million, to secure his services.
For the Heat organization, deciding how to proceed with Butler’s contract demands is crucial, as a misstep could have significant consequences for the team’s future.
