The Phoenix Suns have been tied to Jimmy Butler since the Miami Heat star made it clear that he wants to be traded.
The Suns have been pulling some behind-the-scenes moves to trade for Butler, but, so far, no deal has been made.
Meanwhile, a couple of dark horse teams are in the mix for Butler.
According to Evan Sidery, the Memphis Grizzlies and Milwaukee Bucks “loom as potentially serious dark horse trade suitors” for Butler.
“Both teams can construct a deal that can beat out the Suns from being able to secure him. If Memphis or Milwaukee acquired Butler, he could become a true rental to chase a title,” Sidery wrote.
The Grizzlies and Bucks loom as potentially serious dark horse trade suitors for Jimmy Butler.
Both teams can construct a deal that can beat out the Suns from being able to secure him.
If Memphis or Milwaukee acquired Butler, he could become a true rental to chase a title. pic.twitter.com/g4wGjjLfNY
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) January 28, 2025
Butler has reportedly said he doesn’t want to play for the Grizzlies, although he ultimately has no say in where he goes.
Now that he has burned all his bridges in Miami, he should consider himself lucky if the front office doesn’t send him to his least desired destination.
The Grizzlies and Bucks would view Butler as a “rental,” someone who could help them claim a championship this year before possibly moving on shortly after.
As for the Heat, they have allegedly changed their stance and are willing to take smaller packages in exchange for Butler.
They have grown tired of the fighting, and they have suspended him indefinitely until they get a deal done.
The Grizzlies and Bucks are surely cobbling together their offers and will come to the Heat soon.
With the trade deadline a little more than a week away, the clock is ticking and they do not have a lot of time.
Butler’s next chapter will be revealed soon.
NEXT: Brian Windhorst Names Dark Horse Team That Could Acquire Jimmy Butler
