Jimmy Butler’s tenure with the Miami Heat has reached a boiling point. Following his third suspension this season, Butler’s relationship with the franchise appears irreparable. The Heat have reportedly lowered their asking price, eager to resolve the situation before the February 6 trade deadline. By most accounts, it seems that the Heat will likely trade Butler in less than two weeks.
While Butler has expressed a preference for joining the Phoenix Suns, complications arise due to Bradley Beal’s potential refusal to waive his no-trade clause, making a direct deal challenging. Beal is making $53.7 million next season and $57.1 million the year after, and he holds the power concerning what happens to his future in Phoenix.
Not to mention, the Heat are still waiting for the best trade offer so they can pull the trigger on a deal, and if the Suns can’t get the Beal situation sorted, other teams have emerged as potential destinations for the embattled star. Let’s go through the three dark horse teams that could land Jimmy Butler before the trade deadline.
Golden State Warriors
Potential Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Jimmy Butler
Miami Heat Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Gary Payton II, Kevon Looney, Lindy Waters III, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick
The Golden State Warriors, in pursuit of delivering a better team around Stephen Curry after the star’s claims for not wanting to be on an average team, could be a surprising yet fitting landing spot for Butler considering discussions have reportedly been made already. A potential trade might involve sending Andrew Wiggins, Gary Payton II, Kevon Looney, and Lindy Waters III to Miami, along with 2025 and 2027 first-round picks.
Butler’s tenacity and defensive prowess would seamlessly integrate into the Warriors’ system, providing a formidable wing presence alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. This move could rejuvenate Golden State’s play (19th in PPG, 10th in OPPG), especially considering Wiggins’ inconsistent performances this season, where he’s averaging 17.1 points and 4.6 rebounds per game on 44.8% shooting.
For the Heat, acquiring Wiggins offers a younger talent under contract through 2026, while Payton and Looney add depth and versatility to their roster. The inclusion of future draft picks would aid Miami’s potential rebuild or retooling efforts.
However, the Warriors would need to assess the financial implications, as Butler’s substantial salary could impact their luxury tax situation. Yet, the prospect of adding a player of Butler’s caliber might be too enticing to pass up, especially in the fiercely competitive Western Conference. With Butler, the Warriors could have enough to turn their season around.
Memphis Grizzlies
Potential Trade Details
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: Jimmy Butler
Miami Heat Receive: Marcus Smart, Brandon Clarke, John Konchar, Luke Kennard, 2027 Second-Round Pick (ATL)
The Memphis Grizzlies have quietly built a reputation as a gritty, resilient team, mirroring Butler’s own playing style. A trade package sending Marcus Smart, Brandon Clarke, John Konchar, and Luke Kennard to Miami, along with a 2027 second-round pick from Atlanta, could be on the table.
Butler’s veteran leadership and defensive intensity would complement Ja Morant’s explosive offense and Jaren Jackson Jr.’s defensive dominance, potentially elevating the Grizzlies to serious contender status. This season, Butler is averaging 17.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game, numbers that would bolster Memphis’s lineup when he is motivated to play again.
For Miami, acquiring Smart brings a defensive stalwart and former Defensive Player of the Year, while Clarke and Konchar add youthful energy and versatility. Kennard’s sharpshooting addresses Miami’s need for perimeter scoring, as he’s hitting 49.0% from beyond the arc this season. The Grizzlies would need to consider the impact on team chemistry and the development of their young core, but Butler’s experience and skill set could provide the necessary edge in high-stakes playoff scenarios.
Milwaukee Bucks
Potential Trade Details
Milwaukee Bucks Receive: Jimmy Butler
Miami Heat Receive: Khris Middleton, Bobby Portis, MarJon Beauchamp, 2031 First-Round Pick (MIL), 2031 Second-Round Pick (MIL)
The Milwaukee Bucks, always in win-now mode with Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard leading the charge, could view Butler as the missing piece to another championship run. A trade scenario might involve sending Khris Middleton, Bobby Portis, and MarJon Beauchamp to Miami, along with 2031 first and second-round picks.
Butler’s two-way prowess and playoff experience would mesh well with Antetokounmpo’s dominance and Lillard’s shooting, creating a formidable trio capable of winning the NBA title this season. This season, Middleton has struggled with injuries, averaging 12.5 points in only 20 appearances, which might prompt the Bucks to consider a shake-up.
For the Heat, Middleton provides an All-Star caliber player when healthy, while Portis adds toughness and rebounding—averaging 7.9 boards per game this season. Beauchamp offers a promising young talent under team control. The future draft picks would further sweeten the deal, giving Miami assets for future moves.
The Bucks would need to weigh the risks associated with Butler’s recent disciplinary issues, but his competitive fire could be the catalyst for another title run in Milwaukee. With Giannis and Lillard in their primes, the Bucks have to tread carefully concerning making the team a title contender because the East only has three top dogs right now: the Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers, and New York Knicks. With Butler, the Bucks’ Big Three puts them right there with them concerning the probability of a Finals berth.
