It’s possible that Jimmy Butler may not be with the Miami Heat after February.
The challenge is that evaluating Butler’s season is tough after only seven games. He left his eighth game early against the Denver Nuggets due to an ankle injury.
If Butler’s performance in the coming months influences team president Pat Riley to part ways with the veteran star, the Golden State Warriors are likely to be the first to make a compelling offer. Currently near the top of the Western Conference with a 9-2 record, the Warriors are widely seen as lacking sufficient star power on their roster.
Trade Proposal:
Heat Receive:
– Jonathan Kuminga
– De’Anthony Melton
– Andrew Wiggins
– Golden State’s 2025 first-round pick
– 2026 first-round pick swap (via Golden State)
– Golden State’s 2027 first-round pick
– Atlanta’s 2028 second-round pick
– Golden State’s 2030 first-round pick (protected Nos. 21 to 30)
Trade Proposal:
Warriors Receive:
– Jimmy Butler
– Bruno Fernando
– Josh Richardson
Trade Proposal:
Raptors Receive:
– Gary Payton II (into non-taxpayer MLE)
– Atlanta’s 2026 second-round pick (via Golden State)
– Miami’s 2031 second-round pick (top-55 protected)
This hypothetical trade outlines a clear path for both the Heat and Warriors, with the Raptors acting as a facilitating partner. Miami avoids a full rebuild, opting instead for a retooling phase that focuses on Tyler Herro, Bam Adebayo, Jonathan Kuminga, and added draft assets.
Alternatively, this deal extends the Warriors’ championship window, allowing them to stay competitive for a few more years before Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler eventually retire.
