Even though his ongoing feud with Heat executive Pat Riley is still not resolved, Butler does not yet have a new home. While there are perhaps several suitors ( including the Suns) with potential interest in the veteran, without a deal, Butler is still employed by the Heat and obligated to play.

The clash pits perhaps the NBA's most disgruntled superstar against a franchise that won't bend to his will. And everyone in the NBA is watching.

Tensions are high, but Butler can bolster his own market by playing well for Miami when his suspension ends after Wednesday's game in LA.