NBA Trade Rumors: Jimmy Butler interested in linking with $51.9M Western Conference superstar in blockbuster deal

The Jimmy Butler sweepstakes continue to catch momentum, and the latest NBA trade rumors suggest the Heat superstar has a move to the Phoenix Suns in his sights. That blockbuster deal could lead him to join the $51.9 million superstar Kevin Durant in the Western Conference.

The Suns are the fourth team Durant has been linked with after initial reports suggested he had the Mavericks, Rockets and Warriors on his wishlist. Here's what NBA insider Shams Charania wrote regarding the latest reports:

"The Phoenix Suns are another team that Jimmy Butler’s agent, Bernie Lee, has indicated in league circles that the six-time All-Star is open to as a destination while Miami listens to trade offers, sources tell ESPN, joining Dallas, Houston and Golden State."

Butler, 35, is under contract through 2025-26. However, he will have a player option next season.

Butler could decline that and become an unrestricted free agent. If the Heat don't plan on extending his contract, trading him this season seems like their best option.

The Suns are an intriguing suitor, who will likely have to part ways with at least one of their three stars, Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. Durant and Booker seem like the mainstays, leaving Beal as the likeliest player to depart in a potential trade for Butler.

The logistics of that could be tricky and a third team could be involved if the teams negotiate a blockbuster trade. Additionally, Beal has a no-trade clause. He can veto the deal if he doesn't land up with a team of his choice in this potential move.

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