Jimmy Butler’s Miami Exit? De’Aaron Fox Trade Rumors Heat Up

Pat Riley has officially shut down the rumors about Jimmy Butler being traded before the upcoming NBA trade deadline, emphasizing that the 35-year-old star is staying put with the Miami Heat. However, not everyone agrees this is the best course of action. Former NBA Coach of the Year and current NBA TV analyst Sam Mitchell believes Miami will ultimately trade Butler, warning it could be disastrous if the team doesn’t act soon.

Mitchell explained that if Butler doesn’t see a lucrative three-year sign-and-trade offer elsewhere, he’ll likely opt into his $52.4 million player option for the 2025-26 season. “If Jimmy doesn’t get traded, he’s going to opt in, take that $52 million, and then walk away after the season,” Mitchell said. He argued that losing Butler for nothing would be a worst-case scenario for the Heat, especially since they could secure valuable assets in return by dealing him now.

The analyst floated the possibility of a blockbuster trade involving Sacramento Kings star De’Aaron Fox. Recent turmoil in Sacramento has sparked speculation about Fox’s future with the franchise, particularly after head coach Mike Brown was fired following a fifth consecutive loss. Fox, the NBA’s 2023 Clutch Player of the Year and steals leader last season, could fit Miami’s needs, and Mitchell suggested Butler heading to Sacramento in exchange could be a viable solution.

However, this hypothetical trade raises questions. Would the Kings be willing to part with their 27-year-old All-Star for a 35-year-old Butler, especially when Sacramento is not currently positioned as a championship contender? While Miami might view the move as a way to rejuvenate their roster, Sacramento’s interest could hinge on their long-term strategy.

For now, Butler remains in Miami, but Mitchell’s analysis highlights the high stakes for Riley and the Heat as they navigate the veteran’s future. Whether the Fox-Butler trade becomes more than a rumor, the coming months will be pivotal for both teams.