Grade the Trade
This trade may be a slight overpay by the Lakers, considering Butler's age and the fact that he still has to sign a contract extension. They would need assurances that Butler would commit long-term, and the fit alongside James and Davis is a bit clunky. It is a high-risk, high-reward trade for the Lakers.
Trading Butler isn't ideal but, if the Heat are forced to, a package that addresses needs in the frontcourt and garners another scorer and multiple picks could make the package appealing.
Grade: B