We are moving closer to the trade that might bring Butler to Phoenix, and Shams confirms that it could happen as early as this week.
Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler is doing all he can to leave Miami and head to the Valley to play with the Phoenix Suns. By now, it’s well known that Phoenix is Butler’s preferred — and possibly only — destination where he would like to continue his career. In the latest reports from Shams Charania, Butler has tripled down on his request to be traded.
“Jimmy Butler has tripled down on his trade request… The Heat have had some productive conversations on a potential Butler trade this week.”@ShamsCharania says the Heat are still working to find a trade for Jimmy Butler pic.twitter.com/1FI9B8e6fG
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 21, 2025
There is potential for this trade to happen this week, and with the Suns falling to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday afternoon, it’s clear how far this team is from being a true contender.
The Suns are seeking trades that will have an immediate impact because, as it stands, there isn’t a viable path for a rebuild that appeals to the fans. Or even to Suns guard Devin Booker. If the Suns want to retain Booker, Butler needs to land in Phoenix within the next few weeks to keep their playoff hopes alive and maintain Booker’s interest in staying with the team.
The Suns have a few weeks to determine if they need to reset the roster. “Blowing it up” doesn’t necessarily mean a years-long rebuild.
Our last Empire of the Suns podcast, presented by Sonic, made the case for looking for sustainability.
Full episode: https://t.co/rz6oVVrlSN pic.twitter.com/F9ubgVCc4A
— EmpireOfTheSuns (@EmpireOfTheSuns) January 21, 2025
Booker needs help, and if a rebuild is on the horizon, my guess is that he’ll be out. Even with adding Butler, I believe the Suns will struggle due to the team’s age and lack of depth. This situation doesn’t appear to be improving, especially with Mat Ishbia likely re-signing Butler to a max deal, which could tie up the team’s financial flexibility for years to come.
How optimistic are you that the Suns will land Butler within the next couple of weeks? And if they do, do you think it will significantly improve the team’s chances, or is it just a short-term fix with long-term repercussions?