Despite all the rumors that have been swirling around, the Golden State Warriors are reportedly not interested in going after Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler. Butler recently asked for a trade out of Miami and speculation began about where he could land.
The Warriors have been searching for another star to pair with Steph Curry but it seems that it won’t be Butler. According to Anthony Slater, Marcus Thompson II, and Sam Amick of The Athletic, Golden State may be out on the six-time All-Star.
“Miami cited “multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team,” adding that they’re finally willing to “listen to offers” after Butler formally asked for a trade, generating another wave of speculation the Warriors would emerge as the most desperate, likely suitor. Yet according to a source close to Butler, the Warriors are not currently seen as a viable option and there have been no substantive talks or traction to get any type of deal done.”
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Much of the drama that has surrounded Butler with the Heat has been about his future contract. Butler can become a free agent at the end of the year and has wanted a new, lucrative deal.
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The star does have a player option for next season at $52.4 million and many expect him to opt into it. But he wants a longer deal to give himself some security, especially with him entering his mid-30s.
Butler has shown that he can still be very good while on the floor but Miami never seemed to engage on a new deal. If Miami does trade Butler, whoever lands him will need to enter into negotiations with the star on a new contract.
Due to the chance of him becoming a free agent this summer, many teams will be hesitant to give up anything of substance in a deal. This could cause some issues for both Butler and the Heat.
The Warriors were one of the few teams that were on the preferred trade list of Butler so it’s a guessing game where he will end up. Other teams such as the Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks make sense but due to his large salary, a trade can be tricky.
It remains to be seen what will happen with Butler but Golden State seems to be looking elsewhere. While a Butler, Curry pairing would have been fun to watch, it may be for the better in the long run for the Warriors’ future.
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