Feb 29, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler (22) reacts after a play in the second quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

11-Year NBA Veteran Makes Bold Jimmy Butler Trade Prediction

Originally posted on Memphis Grizzlies on SI
By Logan Struck | Last updated Jan 28, 2025 5:54 PM ET

With a dramatic Miami Heat, Jimmy Butler trade saga being the talk of the NBA leading up to the trade deadline, many contemplate where the six-time All-Star should end up.

Many different teams have been floated around as potential destinations, but with Butler's extended postseason experience, it would be best for him to land with a contender. Butler has led the Heat to three Eastern Conference Finals appearances in the last five seasons, proving to any potential suitor he is a winner, despite his current drama overshadowing his talent.

"[After] 5 overly successful seasons for Jimmy Butler in Miami ... [This could] potentially end at the NBA trade deadline." @ShamsCharania says the Miami Heat are in "active conversations" with "multiple teams" regarding a Jimmy Butler trade. pic.twitter.com/KTKU4AfDTE
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) January 28, 2025

A few potential suitors certainly rise to the top during Butler trade conversations, but focusing on what teams the All-NBA forward would take into championship consideration is most important.

11-year NBA veteran and three-time All-Star Gilbert Arenas, who most recently spent time with the Memphis Grizzlies, gave his bold prediction on who should trade for the disgruntled Heat star. Arenas believes if the Milwaukee Bucks added Butler, he would take them to make the NBA Finals over the Boston Celtics.

"You get Jimmy Butler or Bradley Beal, I'm taking the Bucks [over the Celtics]," Arenas said. "The reason is this: The X-Factor is Giannis. Giannis don't play that game."

Bucks going to the Finals if they trade for Jimmy Butler or Bradley Beal pic.twitter.com/mRzX8YZ5Ze
— Gilbert Arenas (@GilsArenaShow) January 27, 2025

Arenas continues to say that adding a perimeter scorer like Jimmy Butler or Bradley Beal alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard would take them to another level. Antetokounmpo dominates a game inside the arc, so having a guy like Butler or Beal to strengthen their other areas would make them the best team in the East.

This article first appeared on Memphis Grizzlies on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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