Jackson specifically cites the Boston Celtics' trades for center Kristaps Porzingis and guard Jrue Holiday which resulted in an instant title, and the Milwaukee Bucks' deal for All-Star point guard Damian Lillard, moves that Jackson observes were far bolder than the Heat's summer signings of center Thomas Bryant and shooting guard Josh Richardson.

Butler met with Heat president Pat Riley last week, and then met with Heat owner Micky Arison and chief executive officer Nick Arison on Thursday, according to league sources. Through it all, Butler has remained adamant about his desire to be traded.

Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat mended the fence enough for him to play Friday night, his first game back from a seven-game suspension. Does that mean both sides are ready to proceed like nothing—including a seemingly never-ending trade saga and public feud between Butler and Heat president Pat Riley—ever happened?