The Phoenix Suns have entered one of the hottest trade discussions in the NBA.
Where will Jimmy Butler land? It’s been a question circulating the league since the Heat recently expressed a willingness to trade the six-time All-Star.
Before Wednesday, Butler and his agent had listed the Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets, and Dallas Mavericks as preferred destinations were he to be traded by the Heat.
Now, it appears the Suns have been added to the list, per ESPN’s Shams Charania.
“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,” Shams posted to X on Wednesday night.
But is Phoenix a viable trade partner with Miami?
NBA insider Keith Smith weighed in on the situation on Wednesday.
“This would mean KD, Beal or Booker are headed to Miami or elsewhere,” Smith said.
“That’s the only way the math works. Phoenix can’t aggregate salaries. So, count me as being fairly skeptical this happens.”
Smith soon after added to his analysis on the likelihood of Butler to Phoenix.
“Just for clarity: I tweeted this because the only way PHX can make it work for Butler is by trading one of KD, Beal or Booker,” Smith said.
“Doesn’t have to be to Miami but remember: Beal still has a no-trade clause, and he’s still owed $161M through 2026-27.”
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