Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler finds himself at the center of trade rumors as the trade deadline approaches on February 6, 2025. Butler, who is in the final year of his contract, holds a lucrative player option worth $52 million for the next season.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Heat have started listening to trade offers for Butler. The six-time All-Star has been a cornerstone for Miami, leading the team to multiple deep playoff runs, but his potential departure raises questions about the Heat’s long-term plans.
Among the voices weighing in on Butler’s next possible destination is Celtics legend Paul Pierce. During an appearance on Speak, Pierce shared his thoughts on the best fit for the Heat superstar, naming Nikola Jokic’s Denver Nuggets team.
“If I had to guess, the best fit for Jimmy Butler would probably be the Denver Nuggets. I think they need another go-to guy to help Joker out, but if they can find a way to add Jimmy Butler,” Pierce said.
Paul Pierce on best team for Heat's Jimmy Butler.
— Sporting Zealot (@SportingZealot) December 11, 2024
“If I had to guess the best fit for Jimmy Butler would probably be the Denver Nuggets. I think they need another go-to guy to help Joker out, but if they can find a way to add Jimmy Butler,” Pierce said.
(Via @SpeakonFSI) pic.twitter.com/CrDe877px7
“I think you’re going to be seeing Jimmy and Joker raise another championship trophy if they don’t have to play the Celtics,” he added.
Eric Spoelstra Shuts Down Jimmy Butler Trade Rumors
Miami Heat head coach Eric Spoelstra dismissed the recent trade rumors surrounding Jimmy Butler during Tuesday’s practice. Addressing the media, Spoelstra talked about the team’s strong performance this season and downplayed the speculation.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
“It’s been our best, most consistent stretch of the season. So anything else, any other narrative, I don’t care. Nobody should because most of this stuff has just been all like a bunch of gibberish,” he said.
Butler joined the Miami Heat via a sign-and-trade in 2019. According to Statmuse, he has averaged 21.2 points, 6.1 rebounds and 5.7 assists with Miami in his career.
