As the Phoenix Suns continue their efforts to construct a trade package for Jimmy Butler, the Miami Heat could be lining up other options.
So, who else besides Phoenix could emerge as a potential destination for Butler?
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Milwaukee Bucks are often mentioned by rival front offices as a team to watch.
Milwaukee, at the very least, has rival teams wondering if a Butler bid is forthcoming.
From the sound of Stein’s report, it doesn’t appear that a Bucks offer for Butler is currently sitting on Pat Riley’s table, but they’ve been mentioned as a team that could theoretically get in the mix.
Because of their position against the luxury tax, the Bucks would first have to trade Pat Connaughton's $9.4 million salary before swinging a deal for Butler, or put together a framework that also trades Connaughton to a third team.
Would any such offer be suitable for the Heat?
A theoretical deal that ships Butler to Milwaukee could include Khris Middleton and Bobby Portis coming back to Miami. Neither player’s contract extends beyond the 2025-26 season, which is a priority for the Heat as they target free agents in the summer of 2026.
The Bucks could include one first-round pick in 2031 and one second-round pick in a package for Butler or to sweeten a deal for a third team taking on Connaughton.
Also, according to Stein, the Toronto Raptors, Washington Wizards, Charlotte Hornets and Detroit Pistons are all known to have interest in helping to facilitate a Butler trade, provided that they receive something that helps in their rebuilding effort.