Jimmy Butler trade rumors: Heat star’s wishlist team not interested in 2x NBA finalist
As trade season gets underway in the NBA, Jimmy Butler is one of the biggest names on the market. Amid recent developments, one team connected to the All-Star forward doesn't seem to be interested in acquiring him.
On Wednesday night, Shams Charania provided new insights on the Butler trade rumors. He cited that the Phoenix Suns are a team that he'd be open to going to if he's dealt from the Miami Heat.
While Jimmy Butler might reportedly be open to landing in Phoenix, the interest appears to be one-sided. Reports surfaced Thursday morning that the Suns do not plan on pursuing the Heat star.
Even if the Suns were interested in Butler, pulling off a trade would be extremely complicated. They'd have to match his $48.7 million salary, meaning they'd have to trade one of their All-Stars.
It's doubtful that Phoenix would be willing to include Devin Booker or Kevin Durant in a Butler trade, and Bradley Beal has a no-trade clause in his contract. Given these factors, any hypothetical trade seems farfetched.
While being caught up in trade rumors, Butler will continue to lead the charge for the Heat. This season, the six-time All-Star is averaging 19.0 points, 5.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists.
Brooklyn Nets remain a possible Jimmy Butler landing spot in free agency
One noteworthy factor of the Jimmy Butler trade rumors is his contract. With the final year of his deal being a player option, he could hit the market this summer. This makes any possible trade tougher from a bargaining standpoint, as he could end up being a rental.
Over the summer, the Brooklyn Nets were a team connected to Butler. While they aren't interested in trading for him, reports suggest he could be on their radar come free agency.
"Meanwhile, a source close to Butler said, 'Brooklyn is and would remain his first choice to the extent that he’s fine with playing out the year opting out and signing there as a free agent.' But the important caveat there is 'free agent.'"
Given the current state of the franchise, Brooklyn would be an interesting landing spot for Jimmy Butler. After trading Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant, the team appears to be heading for a rebuild. However, landing a player like Butler would completely change their trajectory.
With Ben Simmons' contract coming off the books, the Nets are going to have money to spend in free agency. Depending on where they end in the standings, they could have a lottery pick in a loaded draft as well. If they're able to sign Butler and nab a highly-touted prospect, the Nets could drastically speed up their rebuild.
Seeing that teams are reportedly interested in trading for Butler now, there is a long way to go before his potential free agency should be discussed.