Report: Zach LaVine Viewed By Some Within Warriors As ‘Safer Option’ Than Jimmy Butler

According to NBA reporters Anthony Slater and Marcus Thompson II of The Athletic, Zach LaVine is viewed by some within the Golden State Warriors as a “safer option” than Jimmy Butler

Butler has requested a trade from the Miami Heat. He’s currently suspended indefinitely. 

LaVine has not requested a trade from the Chicago Bulls. However, the Bulls are looking to move him due to his high salary. 

“LaVine is viewed by some within the organization as the safer option,” Slater and Thompson II wrote. “At 29, he’s five and a half years younger and some $6 million cheaper than Butler this season, though his contract extends longer and he’s had some recent health concerns. There are risks all over the board. But there is some understanding and alignment from all levels of the Warriors organization that they lack a true second scorer next to Curry, and LaVine’s explosive three-level scoring ability would fill the roster’s largest void.”

Butler is averaging 17.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 1.1 steals and 0.4 blocks this season for the Heat while shooting 54.0% from the field, 36.1% from beyond the arc and 80.1% from the free-throw line. He’s making $48.8 million.

Meanwhile, LaVine is averaging 24.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.2 blocks for the Bulls while shooting 51.1% overall, 44.6% from 3 and 79.7% from the foul line. He’s making $43 million. 

Butler can’t control his trade request since he doesn’t have a no-trade clause in his contract. However, he can become a free agent after this season by declining his 2025-26 player option worth $52.4 million.

A six-time All-Star, Butler has played for the Bulls, Minnesota Timberwolves, Philadelphia 76ers and Heat. He has career averages of 18.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 1.6 steals and 0.4 blocks. 

The 35-year-old Butler has been traded by every team he’s played for. The swingman joined the Heat in 2019 as part of a sign-and-trade deal with the Sixers. He has guided Miami to the NBA Finals twice. 

LaVine, who has only made the playoffs once in his career, has played for the Timberwolves and Bulls. The two-time Slam Dunk Contest champion has career averages of 20.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.3 blocks. 

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