Even the Heat know bringing Jimmy Butler back is a recipe for disaster

The Miami Heat are bracing for the return of Jimmy Butler, who is set to make his comeback against the Denver Nuggets following a seven-game suspension. While Butler’s on-court abilities are undeniable, his return to the team seems to be overshadowed by significant tension within the organization.

Reports from ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne indicate that Butler’s relationship with key members of the Heat, including franchise president Pat Riley, aren't great. Individuals close to the Miami Heat apparently do not want Jimmy Butler around the team, hinting the six-time All-Star has done more harm than good.

Miami Heat aren't happy Jimmy Butler is coming back to the locker room

“While Heat sources say they expect Butler to return Friday against the Nuggets and are fully prepared for him to play, there remains a palpable dread at what he might do and the environment the ongoing chaos might create," wrote Shelbourne on X. "‘I don't know how he can come back to this locker room,’ one source close to the team said. Said another, ‘We don't want him back.’”

During Butler’s absence, the Heat went 3-4, dropping to the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference. This mirrors their inconsistent performance earlier in the season, with a 17-15 record prior to Butler’s suspension. The team’s relatively similar standing with and without him raises questions about his true impact on their success this year.

Heat star Bam Adebayo has already downplayed the distraction, emphasizing the team’s focus on winning games. However, Butler’s return doesn’t resolve the larger issue: his reported ultimatum to the Heat’s front office. Butler has made it clear that he either wants a trade to one of the 29 other teams or will continue to disrupt the team’s chemistry.

Pat Riley’s gamble in reintegrating Butler into the lineup hinges on a familiar hope: that Butler’s return could lead to another playoff performance reminiscent of his past postseason dominance. However, the risk is substantial. If Butler walks in free agency, Miami risks losing a star player with little to no return.

As the February 6th trade deadline approaches, the Heat find themselves in a precarious position. Whether they choose to mend fences with Butler or seek to move him before tensions escalate further will be a critical storyline to watch in the coming weeks.