Spurs, Thunder named dark horse Jimmy Butler trade suitors

The inclusion of the Thunder in trade rumors creates an intriguing possibility for both Oklahoma City and Miami. Oklahoma City, currently atop the Western Conference standings at 21-5, boasts a strong core led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams. Adding Butler to this mix would elevate the Thunder into serious title contention, providing the playoff experience and leadership they lacked during last season’s second-round exit to the Dallas Mavericks.

The Thunder have a wealth of assets to offer, with 33 draft picks over the next seven years, including multiple first-round selections. To acquire Jimmy Butler, Oklahoma City would need to package players such as Luguentz Dort, Aaron Wiggins, and Isiah Joe to match Butler’s $48.7 million salary, along with multiple draft picks. Miami could also inquire about Jalen Williams’ availability, though his inclusion in any deal remains uncertain.

Spurs remain a wild card

The Spurs, also named in ESPN’s report, could structure a trade around Keldon Johnson, Malaki Branham, Harrison Barnes, and a 2025 first-round pick. San Antonio, currently sitting at 14-13 and 11th in the Western Conference, is unlikely to contend for a title this season but may view Butler as a veteran presence to pair with rising star Victor Wembanyama.

Butler’s playoff pedigree, combined with Wembanyama’s development, could position the Spurs for sustained success in the coming years. However, San Antonio’s willingness to part with key assets to acquire Butler remains uncertain.

Lakers prioritize other targets over Butler

While Siegel included the Lakers in the list of potential suitors, he characterized the possibility as “nothing more than fan fiction.” Los Angeles, currently focused on bolstering its frontcourt and adding two-way wings alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, is unlikely to take on Butler’s hefty contract at this time.

The Lakers are reportedly targeting other trade options, including Jonas Valanciunas of the Washington Wizards and Brooklyn Nets forwards Cameron Johnson and Dorian Finney-Smith. Johnson and Finney-Smith bring versatility as defenders and floor spacers, while Valančiūnas offers the interior presence Los Angeles needs to complement its star duo. This focused strategy reduces the likelihood of pursuing Butler, given his significant salary and the team’s priorities.

As trade rumors swirl, the Thunder and Spurs emerge as intriguing dark horse candidates for Jimmy Butler. Oklahoma City’s draft capital and San Antonio’s young assets provide unique opportunities for the Heat, should they decide to move their veteran star. Meanwhile, the Lakers appear to be steering their attention toward other trade options as the February 6 deadline approaches. Butler’s future remains a focal point in ongoing league discussions.