Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler has been at the center of trade rumors this offseason, but the team took a definitive step on Wednesday by securing another cornerstone player. While Butler’s future remains undecided, Bam Adebayo solidified his commitment to the Heat with a significant contract extension.
According to Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium, Miami plans to sign Adebayo to a three-year, $166 million maximum extension. This move comes despite Adebayo having two years left on his current contract, showing the Heat’s proactive approach to locking in one of their key players through the 2028-29 season.
Earlier reports from Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald had indicated Miami’s intention to offer Adebayo a lucrative extension, foregoing the opportunity for a larger supermax contract that would have been available if he made an All-NBA team.
Adebayo, known for his versatility and defensive prowess, averaged 19.3 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game this season. He earned his third All-Star selection and was named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team for the first time in his career.
Despite Adebayo’s extension stabilizing the Heat’s future, uncertainty looms around Butler, who is under contract for the upcoming season with a player option for the following year. Team owner Pat Riley previously indicated a lack of urgency in extending Butler’s contract beyond 2025.
With Adebayo now locked in, Miami has a foundational piece to build around regardless of Butler’s future. The Heat retain flexibility to reshape their roster as needed, potentially transitioning away from the Butler era in the coming seasons.
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