Disappointed Jimmy Butler makes his feelings absolutely clear about Miami Heat's handling of trade saga

In the weeks leading up to the trade deadline, Jimmy Butler has been the biggest name in the rumor mill. New developments have emerged on the All-Star guard's feelings with the franchise that have led things to this point.

At this time, Butler has not formally asked the Heat to move him before the February 6 deadline. That said, there have been numerous teams linked to him in recent weeks. Still over a month away from a final decision being made, it remains unclear if Butler will get a change of scenery this season.

The latest reporting on Jimmy Butler has provided some insight into his disconnect with the franchise. He was taken aback by the fact that the Heat did not offer him a two-year extension right away last summer.

"According to multiple sources, Butler has been disappointed with the Heat primarily because Miami declined to give him a two-year, $113 million contract extension this past summer, a deal that would have run through the 2026-27 season.

Butler was open to signing such a deal early in the negotiating window, but his mindset changed when the extension wasn’t immediately offered by the Heat."

As a multi-time All-Star who can still be productive on both ends of the floor, Jimmy Butler has certainly become the key name to monitor as the trade deadline nears.

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Shams Charania details the latest regarding Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat

While the Heat did not find themselves playing on Christmas Day, they were still discussed during ESPN's jam-packed schedule. During NBA Countdown before the Spurs-Knicks matchup, Shams Charania touched on the latest regarding Jimmy Butler.

Charania had previously reported that the Heat were listening to trade offers for Butler but had more to add on Wednesday. He stated that the star forward wants to be moved by the deadline, and that the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors are his preferred destinations.

"Now there was some line really drawn in this sand," Charania said. "There's been an escalation in this situation. Sources tell me Butler prefers a trade out of Miami ahead of the NBA trade deadline."

"The Suns, Warriors are a top his prefered win-now destinations."

Despite being in his mid-30s, Jimmy Butler is still a player who can move the needle for the right team. This season, he is averaging 18.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4.9 assists.

As this saga continues to unfold, only time will tell if the Heat decide to make a massive change and put an end to the Butler era in Miami.