The latest non-development in the Jimmy Butler-Miami Heat dispute was revealed this week by one of ESPN's top analysts.
Videos by FanBuzz
Kevin Durant Wants Jimmy Butler in Phoenix
On Thursday, Kendrick Perkins alleged that the Phoenix Suns are willing to make a huge offer for the Heat's All-star. Perkins, claiming he had a source, said the deal may be about keeping veteran forward Kevin Durant in Phoenix.
"..they want [Butler]. You know why? Because Kevin Durant want Jimmy Butler," Perkins told his co-hosts on the Road Trippin podcast. "And if he does get Jimmy Butler, which I believe he will, they're both going to sign contract extensions. KD is going to sign as well."
The sentiment around the league appears to coincide with what Kendrick Perkins and his source claim. If so, that could spell uncertainty for a Phoenix locker room that, according to senior insider Chris Haynes, is already feeling the pressure.
Officials, seemingly set in their convictions, have tinkered with potential trade scenarios since the Phoenix Suns became Jimmy Butler's premiere trade destination. One name that continues to make the rounds is Bradley Beal, but that may be difficult considering the no-trade clause attached to his last contract.
Bradley Beal could waive his no-trade clause, though early indications suggest that won't be the case.
"There have been no discussions about trades with the Suns or any other team," Beal's agent Mark Bartelstein told ESPN in a statement. "Bradley's total focus is on helping the Suns turn things around."
Bartelstein said Beal, who has two years and $110 million left on his contract after this season, would never give up the no-trade clause he got when he signed a five-year, $251 million contract with the Washington Wizards in 2022.
The Suns are seemingly prepared to discuss terms, leaving the ball in Miami's court.
