The biggest uncertainty for the Miami Heat right now revolves around Jimmy Butler, who has faced three suspensions recently and is eager to be traded before the February 6 deadline. Whether that deal will happen remains uncertain with less than a week left, but both Butler and the Heat are hoping for a resolution. If he is moved, the Heat will need to find a suitable replacement for a player who has led them to two NBA Finals since 2019.
Several trade options are available, including De’Aaron Fox of the Sacramento Kings. Shams Charania reports that the Kings are open to discussions about trading Fox before the deadline. As one of the league’s top point guards, Fox could be a long-term solution for the Heat—if they can work out a deal.
A potential three-team trade scenario, suggested by Ishaan Bhattacharya in FadeAway World, involves the Heat acquiring Fox and Trey Lyles, while the Memphis Grizzlies would receive Butler. The Kings, in return, would get Marcus Smart, Brandon Clarke, Luke Kennard, a 2027 first-round pick (MEM), and two first-round picks from Miami in 2029 and 2031.
Such a trade would allow the Heat to secure one of the NBA’s elite point guards while moving on from the Butler situation. The Grizzlies would gain Butler, at least temporarily, while clearing contracts. Meanwhile, the Kings would acquire draft assets and players to keep them competitive.
