Time is running out for the Jimmy Butler situation to be resolved in Miami.
Jimmy Butler’s second suspension is now complete, and he is now set to begin a third after another statement from the Miami Heat.
But it’s no secret Jimmy Butler wants to be traded, with the topic dominating the NBA trade landscape as the deadline approaches.
Butler continues to drop hints about his desire, even though he has been criticised as ‘petty’ – and there have been a lot harsher words said too.
Right now it’s all about trying to find a resolution, to ensure the Heat and Butler are not stuck with one another much longer.
Outspoken former NBA star Kendrick Perkins has urged the Heat to trade Butler as soon as possible, and has compiled his list of top five destinations.
Speaking to ESPN, Perkins only ranks the Phoenix Suns at number two, the team reported to be Butler’s top choice.
Perkins has the Memphis Grizzlies at number one, a team it was speculated that Butler was not too keen on.
- 5) Dallas Mavericks
- 4) Golden State Warriors
- 3) Milwaukee Bucks
- 2) Phoenix Suns
- 1) Memphis Grizzlies
Perkins explained that he believes the Grizzlies have the right team to put around Butler that can go far.
He argued: “This might be surprising to most, but I feel like this is the best destination for Jimmy Butler, the Memphis Grizzlies.
“I don’t know why Jimmy don’t want to be in Memphis. If you think about the core four they would have, Desmond Bane, Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr and Jimmy Butler, they already one of the best teams in the West.
“I think I might pick the Grizzlies to go to the finals if Jimmy Butler was on this team.”
It was claimed in early January that the Grizzlies could enter the race for Jimmy Butler, but they have remained outsiders.
ESPN’s Bobby Marks told last week that he believes a deal with Memphis is one of the ‘cleanest’, especially compared to the potentially very difficult conversations with the Phoenix Suns.
Bradley Beal’s high salary makes him an unattractive proposition and the Heat do not want him. A deal would have to be a multiple teamer. There has been speculation the Bulls could end up taking him, with one mock trade involving as many as five teams.
Meanwhile comments from Grizzlies rookie sensation Jaylen Wells expressing his admiration for the Heat has Miami fans dreaming of his inclusion in a potential trade.
The worst option for Butler would be a trade to a team like the Washington Wizards – despite one NBA insider suggesting it would be a good deal for Miami.
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