The Miami Heat’s NBA offseason plans revolve around Jimmy Butler‘s potential extension, but team president Pat Riley is cautious about committing to a two-year deal worth up to $113 million.
Riley expressed uncertainty about the team’s approach, citing Butler’s playing time as a significant factor. The 34-year-old forward has missed 100 regular-season games in his five Miami seasons, including a knee injury during the play-in tournament.
“That’s a big decision on our part to commit those kinds of resources unless you have somebody who’s going to be there and available every single night,” Riley said.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat Updates
Despite praising Butler as an elite player, Riley criticized his recent comments about the team’s playoff loss to Boston.
“If you’re not on the court playing against Boston or on the court playing against the New York Knicks, you should keep your mouth shut on the criticism of those teams,” Riley said.
The Heat’s player availability issues extend beyond Butler, with a franchise-record 37 starting lineups used in 89 games this season. Tyler Herro missed 40 games, and only two players made more than 70 appearances.
Riley emphasized the need for a “deep dive” into the team’s health issues, echoing coach Erik Spoelstra’s sentiments.
“We’ve got a really good group of guys, and the No. 1 issue is player availability and having your guys healthy to play every night,” Riley said.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat Updates
As the Heat navigate their offseason decisions, Riley’s 29-year tenure with the team and his commitment to winning remain unchanged.
“Until you change the way you go about doing the things that are necessary to win, whatever they are, those things you’re doing to try to win, if they aren’t working, let’s change,” Riley said.
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