Raptors, Others Surfacing as Potential Facilitators in Jimmy Butler Deal

Multiple NBA teams are stepping up as potential facilitators in the ongoing Jimmy Butler trade saga, with the Toronto Raptors among the most notable volunteers, per Marc Stein of The Stein Line.Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat, NBA news

Doug Smith of The Toronto Star first revealed that the Raptors are willing to act as a third- or fourth-team participant in a trade, helping to broker the deal without acquiring Butler themselves.

When relaying this information to a trusted source, Stein was told that “about half the league” has expressed similar interest in helping the Miami Heat complete a trade that could end Butler’s time in Miami.

Among those teams is the Minnesota Timberwolves, who are reportedly open to facilitating a trade for Butler—though they have no intention of bringing him back to Minnesota after his infamous departure from the team in 2018-19, Stein wrote.

This supports the idea that many teams are more focused on facilitating the deal than acquiring Butler directly.

Stein also corroborates a report from The Athletic’s Sam Amick, confirming that the Milwaukee Bucks have received no indications discouraging them from pursuing Butler, unlike the case with the Memphis Grizzlies.

While the Bucks have been linked to a potential trade for Phoenix’s Bradley Beal, they could still pivot to Butler if the opportunity arises.

However, Stein notes that Milwaukee’s ability to make any significant trade moves is dependent on finding a taker for Pat Connaughton’s $9.4 million contract, as they need to clear second apron restrictions before pursuing any major deals.

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