With Jimmy Butler injured, the Miami Heat snapped their three-game losing streak to win 95-94 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The result leaves them 4-5 and sitting at 6th in the Eastern Conference table. Only two teams, Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers, have a winning record in the East right now.
It has been a disappointing start to the season for the Heat and questions have been raised about whether it is time for them to shake up the roster.
That would most likely include saying goodbye to Jimmy Butler. He is a franchise legend and has guided them to two NBA Finals since joining in 2019.
But at 35 years of age, Butler seems to be slowing down and has not looked great this season. Also, his injury problems do not seem to be getting any better. His contract situation makes things complicated as well, as he has a player option for the 2025-26 season.
So, all things considered, it would make sense for Miami to explore possible trade options for Butler. The Golden State Warriors are one team who are rumored to hold an interest in the veteran.
Would it make sense for the Heat to try and bring in Jonathan Kuminga from the Warriors as part of a Butler trade?
Ben Verbrugge wrote in The Sporting News: “It might be time for the Heat to move on from their star player and get something in return. The Warriors have the perfect player for Miami to build around in the future in Jonathan Kuminga.
“The stars could not be more perfectly aligned for these two teams to make a trade. Stephen Curry and the Warriors are a win-now team, and the Heat are always looking to be one step ahead. Kuminga has seen his role diminished in the early goings of the season, and moving to a new organization could work wonders for his development.”
The Warriors and Kuminga did not end up agreeing a contract extension this offseason. He will be looking for a major deal next summer.
The Warriors might not be open to handing Kuminga the level of contract that he might be looking for. So, including him in a trade package for Butler might make the perfect sense for them.
On the other hand, the Bay Area might be the perfect place for Butler at this point in his career. He would not be the face of the franchise, but rather the supporting star to Stephen Curry as he eyes his fifth ring.
The Warriors are already good right now, but getting someone like Butler could help take them to the next level.
On the other hand, someone like Kuminga might fit the Heat’s timeline better alongside the likes of Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro.
