The NBA world was recently taken by surprise when the New York Post reported that Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler might join the Brooklyn Nets next summer. This news sparked a flurry of reactions, with fans and analysts buzzing about the possibility of a blockbuster trade.
Having spent five seasons with the Heat, Butler has led the team to two NBA Finals appearances and firmly established himself as the face of the franchise. However, the potential move has already inspired several speculative trade scenarios.
Jimmy joins OKC’s rival in a mock trade
Andy Bailey of Bleacher Report has already put together a list of potential mock trades, though the Oklahoma City Thunder are notably absent from any of the proposed deals. Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets, one of the Thunder’s Western Conference rivals, could potentially put together a package to acquire the six-time NBA All-Star.
The suggested trade would see Denver receiving Jimmy Butler and Alec Burks, while Miami would get Michael Porter Jr., Peyton Watson, Julian Strawther, Zeke Nnaji, and a 2031 first-round pick swap.
Bailey comments that, “No player in the world could better complement Butler’s cutting and slashing than Jokić.” He adds that a two-man game between Butler and Jokić would be nearly impossible to defend, offering Denver a potent late-game option alongside the existing Jokić and Jamal Murray combo. While this trade might hurt Denver’s depth, it would give them a more versatile, playoff-ready starting lineup.
The clear favorites in the West?
The Thunder are set to face strong competition in the Western Conference, not just next season but for the foreseeable future. This summer, the franchise arguably made the most significant improvements of any team in recent years, starting with their decision to trade Josh Giddey for NBA champion and elite defender Alex Caruso. OKC also targeted Isaiah Hartenstein in free agency, signing him to a nearly $90 million deal, capping off a game-changing series of moves.
The Bulls are trading Alex Caruso to the Thunder for Josh Giddey, per @wojespn pic.twitter.com/k1dVMPGWvc
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) June 20, 2024
While the Thunder are currently leading the charge, Denver acquiring Jimmy Butler would undoubtedly improve their chances. Pairing the five-time All-NBA forward with three-time MVP Nikola Jokic would give Michael Malone’s Nuggets an advantage in several key areas.
Butler would bring toughness, leadership, championship experience, and an ideal alpha mentality to form a formidable trio with Jokic and the rising star Jamal Murray.
Even if this trade doesn’t materialize, OKC must remain vigilant, as other teams will likely make bold moves to counter their deep roster and strong core, which includes Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren.
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