Rumor: Jimmy Butler to the Phoenix Suns
Butler has been vocal about wanting out of Miami, having been suspended by the Heat several times, most recently for an “indefinite” period after walking out of shootaround upon learning he wouldn’t be in the starting lineup. His trade destination list reportedly includes all teams except the Memphis Grizzlies and Sacramento Kings, but the Suns have been the most frequently mentioned.
In 25 games, Butler is averaging 17.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.8 assists, with shooting splits of 54/36.1/80.1. Despite a dip in scoring compared to his career averages, his other stats remain in line with past performances, suggesting the decline in scoring may stem from his disinterest in playing for Miami.
This situation has been ongoing for months, and a move to Phoenix seems likely. However, the major obstacle to a deal is Bradley Beal’s no-trade clause, which would need to be waived to match salaries in a trade. The New Orleans Pelicans have also been linked to Butler.
Although Butler could provide strong playoff performances, questions remain about his long-term fit with Phoenix, particularly regarding his potential re-signing this offseason and his willingness to extend his contract. His arrival would boost Phoenixโs defense but wouldnโt offer the same offensive floor spacing as Beal.
The Suns recently acquired three first-round picks from Utah to facilitate a Butler trade. Should Butler be traded, the Suns are the most likely destination.
Rumor: Suns Turn Down Trade Offers for KD and Devin Booker
Reports from ESPN’s Bobby Marks and Ramona Shelburne suggest that the Suns have rejected trade inquiries involving Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. This isn’t surprising, as neither player has shown interest in leaving Phoenix. While anything can happenโconsidering even Luka Donฤiฤ was tradedโit appears that Durant and Booker will stay with the Suns for the foreseeable future. Durant is under contract through next season and is eligible for an extension, while Booker is signed through 2028. According to Gerald Bourguet, the Suns plan to build around both stars, and neither player is being actively traded while other options are explored.
Rumor: Guerschon Yabusele Drawing Interest from Multiple Teams, Including Suns
Drafted in 2016, Yabusele initially faced skepticism but has made a comeback with a strong Olympic showing and solid performances with the Philadelphia 76ers. The Suns have shown interest, and Yabusele could be acquired easily due to his minimum contract. His statsโ10.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 39.3% shooting from threeโhighlight his floor spacing and toughness, though his size may limit his effectiveness at center. The question is whether the 76ers are willing to part with him.
Rumor: Jusuf Nurkiฤ Being Shopped to Multiple Teams
Jusuf Nurkiฤ has expressed dissatisfaction with his reduced role in Phoenix, where heโs playing fewer minutes and posting a career-low field goal percentage. Despite his struggles, the Suns are attempting to trade him, possibly along with another player or pick. Rumored destinations include the Orlando Magic, Atlanta Hawks, Chicago Bulls, Washington Wizards, and Toronto Raptors.
Rumor: Zach LaVine a Fallback Option if Butler Trade Doesnโt Work Out
UPDATE: Zach LaVine was traded to the Sacramento Kings on February 2 in a three-team deal that sent DeโAaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs.
If a trade for Jimmy Butler falls through, the Suns could turn to LaVine, with ESPNโs Brian Windhorst noting that more teams are revisiting trade talks with the Suns. LaVine, while not the defender Butler is, is a strong offensive player, averaging 24 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists on 44.6% shooting from three.
However, LaVineโs fit as a third option could be problematic, especially since heโs been the primary player in Chicago for most of his career. Bradley Bealโs no-trade clause could complicate matters, as Beal would need to waive it for a deal to go through. While LaVine doesn’t have a no-trade clause, he would be subject to the Bulls’ decision-making.
