The Golden State Warriors have returned to the mix for Jimmy Butler, as reported by Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer.
The Warriors are one of several teams back in the mix for Jimmy Butler now that the Heat have lowered their asking price,” O’Connor shared in a post on X on Tuesday, January 28.
This update follows a report by ESPN’s Brian Windhorst that Miami has reduced its trade demands for the disgruntled six-time NBA All-Star. Butler was indefinitely suspended on Monday, January 27, after walking out of a team shootaround upon learning of his relegation to the bench.
“Well, the Heat are really trying to move him,” Windhorst said during SportsCenter on Monday night. “There might be a perception that they’re not because this has dragged on for weeks, but they are. Sources I’ve spoken to over the last 48 hours—and especially tonight—confirm the Heat’s price has dropped. They are more flexible than they were when this started last month. The Heat are trying to get this done.”
Heat Adjust Trade Parameters Amid Ongoing Negotiations
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Miami has been in talks with multiple teams but has yet to find a deal that meets its criteria.
A report from the Miami Herald on Monday revealed that the Heat are “determined not to take back sizable contracts that extend beyond next season unless compensated with draft picks.” Additionally, the Heat want players who can contribute to their playoff push this year.
The Warriors could meet those requirements, boasting three available first-round picks, three pick swaps, expiring contracts, and Andrew Wiggins, who would fit Miami’s playoff ambitions.
Warriors Hesitated at Initial Butler Trade Proposal
The Warriors previously balked at the idea of trading both Wiggins and Jonathan Kuminga, as reported by The Athletic on January 4.
“While recognizing Butler’s talent, sources within the locker room, coaching staff, and front office prefer to keep their two best wings,” the report stated. “Butler’s reputation as an elite two-way perimeter player is appealing, but his age, injury history, and salary make him a risky acquisition.”
To match Butler’s $26.2 million salary in any new proposal, the Warriors would still likely need to include Wiggins.
Stephen Curry also cautioned against making a move that could jeopardize the team’s future. However, with the Heat potentially lowering their asking price, Butler may now represent an opportunity to boost Curry’s championship aspirations.
A Surprise Team Could Land Jimmy Butler
While Butler has shown interest in joining the Phoenix Suns, a deal with them remains unlikely. According to veteran NBA insider Marc Stein, Suns owner Mat Ishbia is reportedly open to offering Butler a lucrative contract extension. However, Bradley Beal—whose salary would be required to match Butler’s—has refused to waive his no-trade clause.
ESPN’s Windhorst hinted that the Butler sweepstakes might end with a surprise team swooping in at a discount price.
“This could be a trade that affects the outcome of this season,” Windhorst said. “I think we’re at the phase where a team might land Butler as a bargain and get a player capable of being the best performer in a playoff series.”
Could the Golden State Warriors be that surprise team?
