The Jimmy Butler trade talks are heating up. More teams are interested in acquiring the Miami Heat’s six-time All-Star.
One of the latest reports is that the Milwaukee Bucks are in the mix. Per longtime sports radio host and reporter John Gambadoro, the Bucks and Memphis Grizzlies are two teams that have discussed a deal with Miami.
The Bucks are in a better space than they were earlier in the season, but the addition of Butler could propel them back to contending status. But what would it take for the Bucks to get the former Most Improved Player? It may involve trading key players. Is a trade involving Khris Middleton a possibility?
Milwaukee is a second apron team, which gives them limited flexibility in what they can do.
Acquiring Butler would be tricky, but still something worth pursuing. Middleton makes $31.6 million this season. He also has a player option next season. Bobby Portis makes $12.5 million this season and like Middleton, he has a player option. Both players, along with Pat Connaughton and MarJon Beauchamp can be moved in hopes of acquiring Butler.
That could help get them out of the second apron. However, it may require a third team involved.
A team like the Detroit Pistons have cap space. A deal where Milwaukee receives Butler and Josh Richardson from the Heat, Miami receives Middleton, Portis and Wendell Moore Jr (from the Pistons) and the Pistons receive Connaughton, Beauchamp and draft picks works.
Milwaukee is in a tricky situation and it will take some thought.
Butler is averaging 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.7 assists. He is searching for his first championship, and the right deal could put him closer to achieving that goal. The 2021 champs looking to get back to that point may be the answer.
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