The Jimmy Butler–Miami Heat saga has devolved to a level that few would have expected, given the reputations of both the player and the team. But it appears that Butler’s demand for a trade from the team is not a guarantee that he will get it, as The Athletic’s Sam Vecenie reports that several sources within the NBA think that the Heat keeping Butler until the end of the season is a significant possibility.
“I have a healthy degree of skepticism that these deals make sense for all the teams involved largely because it’s hard to come up with a two-team deal that accomplishes everything Miami might be looking for. I also started to wonder whether Miami calls Butler’s bluff and rides out the rest of the year with him on the roster.”
“By doing so, the Heat could enter June with him on the books, and either get him to opt in to accept a trade somewhere or allow him to opt out and move on. That’s what the LA Clippers did this past summer with Paul George, and league sources believe it’s a real possibility that shouldn’t be discounted.”
The example of Paul George on the Clippers is a little strange, as they are not necessarily comparable situations. George ultimately wanted to stay with the Clippers, and gave them multiple opportunities to sign him, even if it was for a little less than max money. Furthermore, George never demanded a trade prior to the trade deadline last year.
Butler was recently suspended by the Miami Heat for seven games for what they described as ‘conduct detrimental to the team’. The suspension is expected to cost him $2.35 million in missed salary. During this time, they will be listening to offers for him, which could mark an ugly end to the partnership between Butler and the Heat.
Where Will Butler End Up?
Holding on to Butler past the trade deadline wouldn’t do anything for the Heat. If anything, it would only benefit Pat Riley, who would get a chance to get some revenge on Jimmy Butler for this recent fiasco. But the Heat would walk away with nothing as Butler would leave the team for free in the summer.
But where will the Heat trade him? Well, it appears that the Golden State Warriors will not be one of the teams going for Butler. As of now, no team has emerged as a favorite to land the former All-Star.
We here at Fadeaway World have come up with a few trade ideas that could benefit Butler, the Heat, and whatever team they are trading with. One of our ideas sees Butler join De’Aaron Fox in going to the Spurs to form a big three with Victor Wembanyama on the Spurs.
Another mock trade we made keeps him with De’Aaron Fox but on the Sacramento Kings, as they make a late push to become contenders once again. Finally, we pitched Butler to the Grizzlies, giving them a solid second option behind Ja Morant and elevating them to championship status.
Stay tuned to Fadeaway World for more awesome mock trade ideas and the latest updates on this ongoing Jimmy Butler saga.
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