Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat remain entangled as the league’s biggest storyline thus far this season.

After five years of fruitful partnership, all signs have led both sides to a looming bitter break up. As Jimmy Butler failed to obtain the max extension and great supporting cast that he badly seeks, it instantly destroyed his relationship with the organization.

Disgruntled by the turn of events, reports have resurfaced that Butler has indicated his desire to be traded. And the roaring outside as a result of these prompted the Miami Heat to immediately slap him a lengthy suspension while attempting to work a deal that will finally allow Butler to leave.

Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images

In or Out

The beloved franchise legend has seen it all throughout the history of the organization. He was a part of the team’s first championship, an integral member of their dynastic run in early 2010s, and was the resonating veteran leader of this Miami team alongside Butler before finally retiring in 2023.

And even though he’s no longer part of their roster, Haslem is still adorned throughout the ball club for his impact and contributions during his playing career.

With all of what’s happening right now, Haslem is certainly bothered and alarmed for both Butler and the Heat. As such, in the recent episode of his The OGs podcast, the 44-year-old dropped a cryptic statement in connection to this ongoing drama.

“I will say this, guys, there’s one thing that we do say. You’re either in or you’re out and there’s no in between,” he simply said.

“That’s what I’m going to say and I’m going to leave it at that.”

All in for Miami

It is an interesting remark considering Haslem’s ties for the two. Nevertheless, it has to be assumed that he’ll simply side with the Heat as the franchise has been his home from the start up until today in which he currently serves for them as the Vice President of Basketball Development.

Butler’s seven-game suspension is about to end and there were speculations that he might still even return to the team. This is yet to be seen by acknowledging all of the disastrous events that took place over the past couple of weeks since he went inactive.

For now, it seems that the Heat couldn’t care less if Butler will still reenter their group or not as they’re finally learning to stand on their own without him, at peace away from distractions.