As the NBA trade deadline approaches, Bradley Beal of the Phoenix Suns and Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat are among the players generating buzz in trade rumors, with the Milwaukee Bucks mentioned as a potential suitor for either. However, according to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Bucks are reportedly more likely to pursue Beal over Butler.
Stein notes that the Bucks would face certain challenges in trying to trade for either player. As a second apron team, they would need to clear salary space before taking on the contracts of either Beal or Butler. One player frequently mentioned as part of a potential trade is Pat Connaughton, whose $9.4 million contract could help the Bucks facilitate a deal without exceeding salary limits.
If the Bucks were to target Butler, it would likely require them to move Khris Middleton, which the team is apparently open to, according to ClutchPoints’ NBA insider Brett Siegel.
Both Butler and Beal could significantly boost the Bucks’ position in the Eastern Conference. Despite a slow start to the season, the Bucks have improved and are currently 23-17, ranking fourth in the East.
While Butler has expressed a desire to leave the Heat, there have been no reports suggesting Beal wants out of Phoenix. Recently, Butler returned from a team suspension, while Beal has been moved to the bench in an effort to help the struggling Suns.
Both players continue to perform at high levels. Butler has averaged 17.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.2 steals, shooting 54.7% from the field, 35.3% from three, and 79.4% from the free-throw line. Beal is averaging 17.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.1 steals, with shooting splits of 48.5% from the field, 38.5% from beyond the arc, and 75% from the free-throw line.
