The Miami Heat suspended Jimmy Butler for the second time this month on Wednesday, electing to keep the star out two more games after he missed a team flight to Milwaukee, ESPN reported.
Butler already served a seven-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the team, as the Heat went 3-4 from Jan. 4-15.
The six-time All-Star had requested a trade, saying his relationship with the team had deteriorated beyond repair.
After Butler missed five games in December due to illness, the team was dissatisfied with his level of play upon his return and issued a seven-game suspension for conduct that had become a problem “throughout the season.” season and particularly in recent years. weeks.”
At the time, Butler said he would “probably” never be happy playing for the Heat again, but he returned from his suspension on January 17 and averaged 13.0 points with 3.3 rebounds and 5.7 assists as the team finished 1-2.
On the season, Butler has averaged 17.0 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.8 assists.
Miami Heat suspend Jimmy Butler for two games after missing team flight
According to the report, Butler did not show up for the team flight before the game against the Bucks on Thursday.
Butler will now miss the game in Milwaukee and a Saturday in Brooklyn.
At the time Butler's original desire to be traded became known, Heat president Pat Riley said the team was not going to trade one of its best players.
After the first suspension was imposed, Riley said the team was willing to listen to trade offers.