Carmelo Anthony weighed in on the growing drama surrounding Jimmy Butler’s trade request, predicting that things will only get worse for the Miami Heat star. In a recent episode of 7PM in Brooklyn, a Wave Sports + Entertainment Original, hosted by Anthony himself, the NBA legend discussed Butler’s situation with former NBA star Blake Griffin.
Anthony, known for his candid opinions, didn’t mince words when commenting on Butler’s trade request. “This ain’t the Jimmy that I know. Something’s going on with Jimmy,” he said. “Best thing to do is part ways. This is going to get ugly because Jimmy’s not a guy that’s going to back down. He’ll start forcing his way. If you don’t trade him that Miami sh*t’s gonna get nasty.”
The tension surrounding Butler’s request has escalated in recent weeks, with the star reportedly seeking a trade to the Phoenix Suns. Miami has responded with a seven-game suspension, a move that only adds to the drama. Butler’s desire to join Phoenix has created complications, as the Heat are unwilling to take on Bradley Beal’s contract in any potential deal. Adding to the complexity is Beal’s no-trade clause, which means any trade involving him requires his approval.
Griffin also chimed in on the situation, admitting that while Butler’s approach to securing a trade is entertaining, he wouldn’t advise it. “I wouldn’t do it that way, so I can’t say that I f*ck with it, but I do think it’s hilarious,” Griffin said. “It’s entertaining. I just think because now it has happened multiple times, right? If this is the first time he wants out of Miami, cool. I get it. No problem with that, but remember Minnesota. Philly, remember Philly? Yeah. Now in Chicago. You only have a certain amount of times you can do that, right? It’s entertaining but I think if it was the NBA, he probably would’ve had to play it a different way.”
Butler’s repeated trade requests have raised eyebrows across the league, with his moves from Minnesota, Philadelphia, and now Miami creating a pattern. This time, however, his focus on landing in Phoenix has solidified his intentions, despite the challenges. The Heat are caught in a tricky spot, with no clear resolution in sight.
