MIAMI, FLORIDA – MAY 27: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat shoots a free throw against the Milwaukee Bucks during the first quarter in Game Three of the Eastern Conference first-round playoff series at American Airlines Arena on May 27, 2021 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Jimmy Butler has his sights set on a maximum contract extension from the Miami Heat.
Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat were swept out of the playoffs just a few short days ago, but rumor has it the star wing is already thinking ahead to his next priority: obtaining the maximum contract extension he’s eligible for.
Butler’s current contract is guaranteed for the 2021-22 season and includes a player option for 2022-23. However, he’s eligible for an extension this offseason that could be worth up to four years and a cool $181 million from the Heat.
Of course, the 32-year-old wants every penny of that if possible. He will be holding important discussions with the Miami front office this summer.
Butler seeks max contract extension from Miami
Having bounced around between three different teams – Chicago, Minnesota, and Philadelphia – from 2017 to 2019, Butler signed a $141 million contract with Miami in the 2019 offseason. He seems to be thriving under head coach Erik Spoelstra’s system. Few will forget Butler’s valiant efforts leading a hobbled Heat squad to the NBA Finals in 2020, eventually losing 4-2 to LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers.
This past season, Butler averaged 21.5 points, 7.1 assists, 6.9 rebounds and 2.1 steals in his second year with Miami. Ultimately, the Heat had a disappointing finish as they simply could not keep up with Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks.
After losing Game 1 in overtime, the Heat were blown out in the remaining three games. Butler himself left much to be desired, scoring a total of just 41 points and shooting under 36 percent over those final three losses.
Hopefully, Butler has a better shot at this contract extension than he did in the playoffs this year.