The Miami Heat are presumably running around the NBA trying to figure out how to move on from Jimmy Butler while getting a solid return back which keeps them competitive in the Eastern Conference. As the days pass, the market for Butler seems to be expanding.
Suns insider John Gambadoro revealed that teams like the Memphis Grizzlies and Milwaukee Bucks are actively discussing a trade to acquire Butler this season, although the Heat are still not sure if they want to move him right now.
“Some of the rumbling I have heard is that Memphis and Milwaukee are teams having ongoing discussions about a trade for Jimmy Butler. Miami weighing if it is better to trade him now or in the offseason via sign and trade.”
The Grizzlies would be a terrific destination for Butler. The team has the assets to put multiple packages together for the star forward while also being a fiercely competitive squad that Butler can take over the top with his arrival. We’ve discussed a potential Butler to Grizzlies trade which would likely lead to the departure of players like Marcus Smart, Luke Kennard, and more from Memphis.
Many people don’t consider the Bucks when considering major trades due to their non-existent trade assets and status as a second-apron team. But if the Bucks are willing to trade 2021 NBA Champion Khris Middleton, they could make the money for a Butler trade work. It seems unlikely the Heat will be willing to trade Butler to a rival like the Bucks, but it’s an intriguing destination for him nonetheless.
Butler is averaging 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.7 assists this season. His numbers are down as he’s not playing at his highest level while disgruntled for the Heat, but he can still be one of the most impactful players in the NBA. All he needs is a situation where he’s willing to give his 100%.
He made it clear that he’d be happy anywhere but Miami, so moves to the Bucks or Grizzlies can’t be ruled out.
These franchises join primarily the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors in the Butler pursuit. The Suns want Butler badly but don’t have a way to make it happen unless they work out multiple issues with Bradley Beal.
The Warriors are showing a surprising lack of interest in star-level acquisitions, proving the franchise is continuing to operate in an unserious fashion by not landing Stephen Curry a co-star.
The Grizzlies and Bucks would become top-tier contenders with Butler, which is why the Heat definitely won’t send him to Milwaukee. The Bucks don’t have any real future assets and the Heat are old-school enough to ensure Butler doesn’t improve one of their biggest recent rivals.
But the Heat could be enticed into a move to the Grizzlies because they have a ton of future assets. With Memphis playing in the opposite conference, this is a far more tenable possibility that we should all keep our eyes on.
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