The Phoenix Suns have reportedly shut down any pursuit of Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler, despite rumors of the forward’s potential interest in joining the team.
Gerald Bourguet revealed that the Suns are not exploring a trade for Butler, citing financial and roster dynamics as key factors.
Bourguet shared on X (formerly Twitter), “Per a source, the Suns aren’t pursuing a Jimmy Butler trade. Aside from the obvious difficulties with both the Suns and the Heat being tax apron teams, Phoenix believes in their Big 3 and what they’ve seen from this group (11-2) when healthy.”
The logistics of a potential deal also pose significant hurdles for both teams. Bourguet clarified that under the league’s Collective Bargaining Agreement, neither team could absorb additional salary without attaching minimum contracts.
However, he emphasized that the Suns have no intention of moving Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, or Bradley Beal to acquire Butler.
This news follows public denials from Butler’s agent, Bernie Lee, who called recent reports of Butler’s interest in Phoenix “fabricated.” Lee strongly refuted claims linking his client to any trade scenarios and criticized NBA insider Shams Charania behind the rumors.
Butler’s future in Miami remains uncertain after the Heat declined to offer him a contract extension this offseason. The six-time All-Star holds a player option for the 2025-26 season, meaning he could test free agency this summer, leaving the Heat with no return on their investment.
So far this season, Butler has delivered solid performances, averaging 19 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in 32.1 minutes per game. Miami sits fifth in the Eastern Conference with a 13-11 record, but questions linger about their ability to retain their franchise player long-term.
For Phoenix, the decision to avoid pursuing Butler reflects their confidence in their current roster. When healthy, their core trio of Durant, Booker, and Beal has led the team to an impressive 11-2 record, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to building around its “Big 3.”
Both the Suns and Heat are operating under strict tax apron constraints, making blockbuster trades exceedingly difficult. According to NBA rules, teams above the second tax apron face limitations on adding salary, further complicating deals involving high-profile players like Butler.
