Jimmy Butler has been an enigma since he entered the NBA from Maquette in 2011. From the Bulls to the Timberwolves to Philadelphia, and now his tenure in Miami, Butler has experienced success but has also brought drama to every franchise he has played for.
Since signing as a free agent in 2019, Butler, 35, has taken the Heat to two NBA finals, coming up short in both, but also notched two all-star selections, an All-NBA Second Team selection in 2023, All-NBA Third Team selections in 2020 and 2021, and an NBA steals leader title in 2021.
Talent has never been Butler’s issue, but he no longer has the locker room in Miami or a desire to be there. He will most certainly be dealt before Thursday’s deadline. The question is who will land him next.
Butler has used his no-trade clause to turn down a trade to join Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors in exchange for former all-star Andrew Wiggins and multiple first-round picks. If it were up to Jimmy, he would join Devin Booker on the Phoenix Suns.
This may result in a three-way trade between the Warriors, Heat, and Suns that would get Butler what he wants and send future Hall of Famer Kevin Durant back to Golden State. The main issue is former all-star Bradley Beal’s contract. With him making over $50 million as a player best suited to come off the bench, it is not feasible for any team trying to make a playoff run. Don’t be surprised if a team with a losing record is involved in taking on Beal’s contract and buying him out to facilitate the trade.
Landing Kevin Durant would help Golden State get themselves into the playoff picture. Miami would get a better return for Butler, setting themselves up better for the future built around Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo. The Suns would be interesting to watch. As they are the last team in the play-in tournament right now, how will rearranging their roster impact their playoff hopes?
Expect to see Butler in a new city by the weekend and get ready for his trade’s impact on the entire league.
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