Jimmy Butler Trade Rumors: Heat star linked to 3 teams amid his $52 million player option intentions

Miami Heat Jimmy Butler is the center of trade rumors, with reports linking him to three teams. On Monday, NBA insider Brett Siegel named those teams on X.

This rumor comes after Butler decided to exercise his $52 million player option for the 2025-26 season. This is seen by many analysts as a way for Butler to try and force the hand of Miami Heat president Pat Riley.

"There are three teams that have shown genuine interest in trading for Butler this season: Suns, Bucks, and Warriors," Siegel tweeted. "It will be interesting to see if Riley gives into just getting whatever he can for Jimmy now or wait until the offseason."

Butler made it clear he wanted out of Miami, a decision that led to a seven-game suspension. However, Riley looks to be in no rush to trade him, despite the Feb. 6 trade deadline getting closer.

While the three teams linked to Butler have not been confirmed, it has only added to the speculation from fans on social media. Some fans suggested the Suns are a top contender, especially with the organization being among his preferred destinations.

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Jimmy Butler still wants out of Miami Heat, league sources say

Jimmy Butler had a face-to-face meeting with Heat president Pat Riley last week, where he said he still wants out, according to a report by ESPN's Shams Charania. He said he would exercise his $52 million player option and not sign a new deal.

The Miami Heat are seventh in the Eastern Conference standing with a 20-18 record. They are expected to have Butler back on Thursday once his seven-game suspension is lifted.

Reports of his desire to lead the Heat emerged on Christmas Day in a story by Charania. His reported preferred destinations were the Suns, Warriors, Dallas Mavericks and the Houston Rockets.

Butler is in the final year of his contract worth $49 million, However, his suspension is reported to cost him $2.35 million, a situation that involved the league's players association to file a grievance.

This season, he averaged 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.7 assists. He also shot 55.2% from the field and 37.5% from beyond the arc.