NBA Insider Describes Heat's Interest Level for Trading Jimmy Butler

There's motivation to get a deal done, but roadblocks still exist.
The Miami Heat are motivated to trade disgruntled star Jimmy Butler, but roadblocks still exist.
The Miami Heat are motivated to trade disgruntled star Jimmy Butler, but roadblocks still exist. / Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
In this story:

The Miami Heat remain motivated to trade disgruntled star player Jimmy Butler ahead of the NBA's February trade deadline, but roadblocks still exist, according to a report from ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst.

According to the report, there's motivation by both the Heat and Butler's camp to get a deal done, but offers that have come in have not been to Miami's liking. The Heat are seeking players to help them win now, young talent, draft capital and expiring contracts through 2026. The Heat, in earnest, are setting up for a loaded 2026 NBA free agency class that is set to feature Kevin Durant, Luka Doncic, Trae Young, De'Aaron Fox and Jaren Jackson Jr. among others. Miami is always a destination for free agents thanks to the allure of South Beach and Florida's lack of state income tax.

Bontemps and Windhorst noted that while a deal could still take place in the next few weeks, there's a real chance that the saga drags into the summer.

The relationship between the Heat and Butler continues to be contentious, with no immediate end in sight.


More of the Latest Around the NBA

feed


Published
Mike McDaniel
MIKE MCDANIEL

Mike McDaniel is a staff writer on the Breaking and Trending News team at Sports Illustrated, where he has worked since January 2022. His work has been featured at InsideTheACC.com, SB Nation, FanSided and more. McDaniel hosts the Hokie Hangover Podcast, covering Virginia Tech athletics, as well as Basketball Conference: The ACC Football Podcast. Outside of work, he is a husband and father, and an avid golfer.