Jimmy Butler to the Warriors? Exploring Potential Mock Trade
Paul Connor
Host · Writer
The biggest story in the NBA is the ongoing drama in Miami between the Heat and star forward Jimmy Butler. Seeking a trade out of South Beach, Butler was suspended indefinitely after walking out of a team shootaround. This latest incident follows a seven-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the team and a two-game ban for missing a team flight.
With the 35-year-old doing everything possible to force an exit, Miami has reportedly lowered its asking price to expedite a trade and move on from the Butler saga. As a result, several teams are back in the mix to acquire the All-Star, including the Golden State Warriors (23-23). Sitting 11th in the Western Conference, the Warriors are understandably looking to maximize Stephen Curry’s remaining prime years in pursuit of another championship. A Curry-Butler pairing would undoubtedly bolster their chances.
But delving further, what would a potential Butler to Golden State trade look like? His nearly $50 million annual salary complicates matters, making a third team likely necessary to facilitate a deal. After exploring several possibilities, one intriguing scenario involves the Heat, Warriors, and… the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Mock Trade Proposal
Warriors Acquire: Jimmy Butler
Heat Acquire: Julius Randle, Dennis Schroder, Gui Santos, 2025 First-Round Pick (via Warriors), 2031 Second-Round Pick (via Warriors)
Timberwolves Acquire: Andrew Wiggins, Gary Payton II
Why the Timberwolves?
For starters, Randle has struggled to fit within Minnesota’s offense, particularly alongside superstar Anthony Edwards. Currently just four games above .500 (25-21), the T-Wolves are far from last season’s 56-26 finish. Additionally, Miami was among the teams interested in acquiring Randle before he was ultimately dealt to Minnesota. A core of Randle, Tyler Herro, and Bam Adebayo would keep the Heat competitive, while Schroder’s expiring contract and a first-round pick from Golden State help them plan for the future.
Now, I know what you’re thinking — asking the Timberwolves to take on Wiggins’ $26 million annual salary for the next two seasons might be a tough sell, even if a reunion would make for a great story. However, the 29-year-old is enjoying a bounce-back campaign, averaging 17.6 PPG, 4.6 RPG, and 2.3 APG while providing solid defense. Even if T-Wolves brass don’t view Wiggins as a long-term piece, he would likely draw interest from contending teams looking for a reliable wing upgrade. The potential to flip him for additional assets could be enough to make this deal appealing for Minnesota.
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Final Thoughts
Of course, this is purely speculation, but it feels like a realistic outcome. What do you think? Should the Warriors take a chance on Butler despite the baggage? Could another team besides the Timberwolves get involved in the deal? I’d love to hear your perspective!
