Bucks Have Reportedly Talked With Heat About Jimmy Butler in Past Week

Courtney Tate | Feb 1, 2025

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As the NBA trade deadline (Feb. 6) rapidly approaches, all eyes are on the ongoing drama surrounding Jimmy Butler and his future with the Miami Heat.

"You don't want me, I don't want to be here" 😳

Things get HEATED in Studio J as the Fellas talk Jimmy Butler 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/AYyXAdk7Q6

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After months of tension, including public spats, suspensions, and even Butler’s on-court stunts—such as wearing rival teams' colored shoes—there’s a growing sense that the star forward is on the verge of a departure from South Beach.

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While Butler has been vocal about his desire to play for a true championship contender, the Milwaukee Bucks have emerged as a serious contender in the trade sweepstakes.

Over the past week, the Bucks have reportedly talked to the Heat about a deal for Butler. NBA insider Brett Siegel of Clutch Points reported the news.

"Over the last week, Miami has heard from the Phoenix Suns, Memphis Grizzlies, Milwaukee Bucks, and Golden State Warriors, sources said. This should come as no surprise, as these are the four teams that have been linked to Butler for months."

For the Bucks, the possibility of adding Jimmy Butler alongside their established stars—Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard—could create an overwhelming trio of talent that would position them as the clear favorite in the Eastern Conference.

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The defensive intensity and scoring versatility that Butler brings to the table would complement Giannis’ inside game and Lillard’s perimeter shooting, forming a lethal offensive and defensive core.

But what would a trade look like for the Bucks? Likely, to make the money work and appease Miami's desires for both immediate contributors and future assets, the Bucks would have to send Khris Middleton and Bobby Portis to the Heat.

Middleton, a skilled two-way forward and former All-Star, would bring Miami a reliable scorer who can hit clutch shots and defend at a high level. Portis, known for his hustle, scoring off the bench, and strong rebounding, would add depth to Miami’s frontcourt.

For the Heat, the fit of Middleton and Portis would be a solid foundation for building around young stars like Tyler Herro. Middleton’s ability to space the floor would pair well with Herro’s offensive game, and Portis’ grit would complement the Heat’s tough, defensive identity.

Both players could help stabilize Miami in the short term while the team focuses on developing its younger talent for the future.

Butler’s move to Milwaukee, however, would take the Bucks’ championship aspirations to another level. The combination of Antetokounmpo’s dominant presence, Lillard’s shooting range, and Butler’s defensive versatility and playmaking would be nearly unstoppable.

It would also allow Lillard and Antetokounmpo to avoid carrying too much of the load on their own, as Butler can take over in clutch moments.

As Feb. 6 draws near, all eyes will be on whether this potential blockbuster trade happens, reshaping the balance of power in the Eastern Conference and elevating the Bucks as a true title contender.

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