The Golden State Warriors were reportedly searching for a second option to pair with Stephen Curry earlier this season. A perfect match has just become available on the trade market.
There were points this season, primarily during the Warriors' 12-3 start, when one would have thought that the team could comfortably stand pat with its roster. However, with Golden State's recent struggles, it has become apparent that more help is necessary.
That help could come in the form of Jimmy Butler. The most recent report from ESPN insider Shams Charania suggests that the veteran star is absolutely available, for the right price.
Charania wrote: "The Heat are open to listening to offers for Butler and making a deal if the proposal is right, league sources told ESPN, and Butler's agent, Bernie Lee, has indicated in league circles that Butler is open to destinations such as two of the Texas teams (Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks) and the Golden State Warriors. Butler is a native of Houston, Texas."
Shams added this in the report: "Above all, though, he is believed to prefer a win-now title contender in any trade. Teams have also been informed that Butler intends to opt out of his deal in the offseason and become a free agent, sources said. The Heat have hovered around the play-in tournament over the last two seasons, and with Butler's contractual status, they have been open-minded to trade inquiries."
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Butler would provide the Warriors with the type of player they have been searching for since their rumored offseason pursuits of Paul George, Lauri Markkanen, and others.
The current Heat star does come with his fair share of concerns, like injuries and age. However, in terms of extending Curry's window to win another championship, he offers exactly what the team needs.
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This story was originally published December 10, 2024, 10:40 AM.