January 2, 2025; Miami, Florida, United States; As the Miami Heat prepare for another round of NBA action, all eyes are on wing Jimmy Butler (22), who was spotted warming up before the game against the Indiana Pacers at the Kaseya Center. Photo credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images.
With the NBA trade deadline fast approaching, speculation is rife about a possible departure for Butler. Reports indicate that the star player is open to a change of scenery, leading to a flurry of trade talk circulating on social media platforms.
In a recent twist, noted sports columnist Bill Simmons proposed an ambitious four-team trade published on X.
The Miami Heat receive: Winger Zion Williamson, Winger Brandon Clarke.
The New Orleans Pelicans receive: Point guard Tim Hardaway Jr., point guard Luke Kennard, wing GG Jackson, a 2026 first round draft pick (via MEM), a 2029 first round draft pick (via MIA), and a 2029 first round draft trade (via MIA). protected Top-Eight via DET).
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In this hypothetical trade scenario, the Heat would trade Butler for Williamson, sending him to the Memphis Grizzlies with a future first-round pick destined for New Orleans. The Grizzlies currently rank 3rd in the Western Conference, with a record of 23-13. Butler’s unique skillset could mesh well with Ja Morant’s, and with a player option for the summer, Memphis could become an attractive destination for Butler if this trade is successfully negotiated. The Grizzlies have consistently been a playoff contender in the West as long as Morant remains injury and suspension free.
On the other hand, the Pelicans appear to be preparing for a rebuild, making the possibility of parting ways with Williamson more pronounced. The former No. 1 overall draft pick has had a rough season, playing in just six games so far. A new environment could revitalize Williamson’s career, especially if he combines with Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo, a trio that could significantly elevate the Heat’s status as serious contenders in the Eastern Conference. At just 24 years old, Williamson still has the opportunity to reach his full potential.
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Additionally, the Miami Heat would bring in Brandon Clarke from Memphis as part of this trade. This 2019 first-round pick had a remarkable rookie year but has dealt with injury issues since. Currently, he is averaging five rebounds per game. Alongside Kel’el Ware, Clarke could fill a crucial role as a backup at the interior positions. Both Williamson and Clarke have contracts that will keep them in Miami for at least the next three seasons.
For this exchange to happen, financial considerations involve two additional teams. From the Heat’s perspective, that would involve trading Butler and a 2029 first-round draft pick in exchange for Williamson and Clarke.
The trade deadline is quickly approaching on February 6, and only time will tell if this ambitious proposal comes to fruition.
Sports Illustrated Miami Heat contributor Sean Jordan welcomes your feedback at [email protected].
