Jimmy Butler’s agent, Bernie Lee, is not a fan of speculation about the Miami Heat star’s future contract status.

Lee told Anthony Chiang about the Miami Herald that the rumors were ‘disrespectful’ towards the 35-year-old:

“The gift of sports is that things are largely absolute and there is no need to live in hypotheticals. The absolute is the coming season and the work that needs to be done. Jimmy went away this summer and prepared for the task I think we all see that. Speculating about the future is irrelevant and disrespectful to the moment and this group. One of the most important things I’ve noticed with Jimmy that is at the root of his success is creating processes He is stuck in that process and that routine and is ready to attack this season with the group around him.”

Butler has a $52.4 million player option for the 2025-2026 season, potentially allowing him to become a free agent in 2025. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported on October 4 that the forward “wants to be in Miami” and wanted a new contract from the Heat. .

Shams Charania reported on June 26 for The Athletic that Butler would not sign an extension with the Heat or “any other team” before the deadline for his player option in 2025. Charania also noted that his decision to play out the 2024-2025 season was clearly became. “any idea of ​​a trade question” due to the lack of an extension.

Team president Pat Riley revealed that he has had discussions with Lee, but has not met with Butler as much about a new deal.

“I’ve talked to his agent on and off,” Riley told Chiang on Thursday. “…I don’t have to sit down and have these meetings with (Butler) anymore. He’s a very intelligent man.”

Butler’s tenure with Miami has been successful, leading the team to two NBA Finals appearances since he was part of a trade in 2019. Last season he averaged 20.8 points, 5.3 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game on 49.9/41.4/85.8 shooting splits.

Riley previously mentioned Butler’s availability when discussing a potential extension in May.

“It’s a big decision on our part to commit these types of resources unless you have someone who is going to be there and available every night,” Riley said, via the Associated Press (h/t NBA.com). “That’s the truth.”

The six-time All-Star has struggled to stay healthy in recent years, having played in more than 60 games in just one of his five years with the team.

As Miami’s regular season opener approaches Wednesday, it’s clear Butler and his representatives are focused on completing his 2024-25 season with the Heat.