Confirmed deal : Heat Cut Ties With Jimmy Butler, Acquire Lakers’ Enticing Guard In Blockbuster Trade

 

 

If the Miami Heat opt to part ways with veteran star Jimmy Butler at the trade deadline, the Los Angeles Lakers are likely to involve themselves.

The Lakers are almost always hunting for a third star next to LeBron James and Anthony Davis in hopes of winning a second title since 2020. James’ career is coming to an end, meaning now is the time for the front office to pounce on the opportunity to complete LA’s Big Three.

 

For the Heat, this trade allows them to begin a retooling of their roster. Instead of entering full rebuild mode, coach Erik Spoelstra can mesh Knecht with Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro. Knecht, alongside Philadelphia 76ers guard Jared McCain, are arguably the top two rookies through a fourth of the regular season.

The first-round pick would likely fall near the end of the round due to the Lakers’ plan to compete right now. Hachimura and Russell would not need to act as long-term pieces of their lineup but rather match Butler’s salary.

The Lakers jump amidst the top contenders in the loaded Western Conference with this deal. Not only does Butler load the team with star talent, but Larsson is a promising piece for the Heat thus far.

 

Pierce said, “The sky is falling” in Miami, and the Heat may deal Butler soon.

“I know when the streets be talking, and hey, word on the streets is things ain’t too sunny down there in Miami,” Pierce shared. “I’m not sure that Jimmy is going to be there at the end of the year.”

However, Pierce isn’t exactly writing the Heat off just yet. Despite their slow start, the Heat have guard Tyler Herro playing at an All-Star level.