Heat Star Jimmy Butler To Suns? Local Insider Weighs In

The whispers are growing louder. According to plugged-in Arizona Sports 98.7 reporter John Gambadoro, Heat star Jimmy Butler has real interest in joining the Phoenix Suns. This backs up a report from ESPN’s Shams Charania, but Gambadoro didn’t stop there. Jimmy Butler, Heat, NBA rumors

“I always take a little bit of time, make sure I get stories correct,” Gambadoro said Thursday on Burns & Gambo (via Kevin Zimmerman of ArizonaSports.com). “Jimmy Butler is absolutely interested in coming to the Phoenix Suns.

“I would go as far as to say that I believe this will be his number one choice, is to play for the Phoenix Suns.”

That’s a bombshell for a Suns team that, as of now, isn’t actively pursuing Butler. Gambadoro added that Phoenix plans to evaluate its roster over the next 10-to-15 games before making any significant moves. If the Suns perform well, a Butler pursuit becomes even less likely.

Trade Complications

Here’s the rub: as much as Butler might want Phoenix, pulling off a deal is tricky.

Gambadoro suggested a framework involving Bradley Beal and draft compensation. Beal, of course, has a full no-trade clause, meaning he’d need to approve the move.

Even then, his massive contract — roughly $161 million owed through 2026-27 — isn’t exactly enticing for Miami.

As the Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson noted, Beal’s deal is “unappealing” to the Heat, even with picks involved. And speaking of picks, the Suns reportedly want to keep their lone tradable first-rounder (2031) out of any Butler talks.

Gambadoro made it clear: unless Butler forces his way to Phoenix — something there’s no indication he’s planning — a deal remains unlikely.

Butler’s Playful Response

Adding fuel to the speculation, Butler sported bright orange highlights in his braids during Miami’s win over Toronto. A coincidence? Maybe.

Butler brushed off any significance, telling The Miami Herald’s Anthony Chiang there was “no particular reason” for the decision.

Butler did, however, enjoy watching his agent, Bernie Lee, call out Charania for reporting what Lee claimed was “made-up bulls–t.”

“I love it. I am all for the back and forth,” Butler said (via Anthony Chiang of the Herald). “Before he’s my agent, I guess we’re like brothers now. … At least somebody is sticking up for me.”

So, will Butler end up in Phoenix? Right now, it’s more smoke than fire. But with Butler, you never really know.