The endless trade saga continues to roll surrounding the perceived availability of the Miami Heat’s six-time All-Star Jimmy Butler.
After leading Miami to two NBA Finals appearances since the beginning of the 2020’s, Butler is now rumored to be one of the league’s most sought-after trade targets as the Feb. 6 trade deadline approaches.
The five-time All-NBA selection, five-time All-Defensive Team selection, 2015 Most Improved Player and 2023 Eastern Conference Finals MVP has certainly proven his worth to potential suitors around the Association.
In a new report, Butler has further narrowed down his preferences if he were to be dealt to a contending team as trade dialogue reportedly continues to intensify.
“I’m told the (Phoenix) Suns and the (Golden State) Warriors are believed to be atop his list of preferred win-now destinations,” ESPN’s Shams Charania shared during an appearance on “NBA Today” Tuesday evening.
“If the Miami Heat were to trade him, the (Houston) Rockets and (Dallas) Mavericks being the others.”
While recent news of both Phoenix and Golden State making potential runs at acquiring Butler have been announced, these recent updates indicate that the 35-year-old superstar has pushed other franchises to lower positions on his list.
Phoenix’s main strategy of acquiring Butler would likely be offering Bradley Beal’s large contract and some form of young prospects or draft capital in a potential deal, but Phoenix’s status as a second tax apron franchise would bring about plenty of financial hurdles.
For Golden State, pulling off a trade for Butler would look to be easier, as the Warriors have a stash of young prospects and established players that could be sent out to acquire one of the NBA’s best postseason performers to help Stephen Curry and Draymond Green compete for their fifth NBA championship.
Golden State would be able to choose between rising prospects like Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, Moses Moody and others to exchange along with veterans like Andrew Wiggins paired with draft compensation.
As the days continue to pass, Miami’s polarizing star seems to have established that he’d like to have a chance to capture his first NBA title, but it’s still up for interpretation as to which contending franchise will land the two-way force.
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