A new plotline emerged out of nowhere amid the stagnant Jimmy Butler drama. The post Pat Riley Stands Firm on Trade Stance Against Suns as Jimmy Butler Faces $121 Million Dilemma appeared first on EssentiallySports.

Butler was said to be “caught off guard” by the comments according to Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald. There have been many events that have led to the fractured relationship between Butler and the Heat with the one mentioned by Haynes being when the team questioned the effort level.

Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett harshly critique Pat Riley's 'Heat Culture' in a candid and brutal rant, revealing their true feelings.

In games where he has played, Butler has gotten the sense that Miami's offense is gearing more toward the Tyler Herro-Bam Adebayo duo, forcing him to be the third option. Although Herro is having a career year, Butler feels that if he's going to be the third option, he'd rather be a third option for Phoenix.

As Jimmy Butler remains suspended from the Miami Heat, NBA TV analyst Dennis Scott cautioned the star about teaming up with Kevin Durant.

NBA insider Chris Haynes reports that Jimmy Butler's camp has informed a few teams including the Memphis Grizzlies not to trade for

ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins reports Durant wants the six-time NBA All-Star -- his former teammate on the 2016 USA Olympic gold-medal winning team -- in Phoenix, and that each would sign a contract extension with the Suns if a trade materializes.

The Phoenix Suns have "discussed" sending out their 2031 first-round pick in a potential trade for Jimmy Butler, according to ESPN's

Will the Miami Heat grant Jimmy Butler's trade wish to the Phoenix Suns? NBA pundits weigh in on Suns' targets before the February 6 trade deadline.

Butler also said he plans to opt out of the $52.4 million he is owed next season and will not re-sign in Miami.

Will the Miami Heat grant Jimmy Butler's trade wish to the Phoenix Suns? NBA pundits weigh in on Suns' targets before the February 6 trade deadline.

Butler has been projected as a very quality fit alongside the duo of Suns stars already in place - with his relative low-usage nature, ability to pressure the rim, and underrated playmaking would be a step-up from how Bradley Beal fits currently.