NBA Trade Rumor Links Jimmy Butler to New Team for $158 Million Star

A new NBA Trade rumor has linked Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler to a new team

Nov 17, 2021; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler (22) controls the ball around New Orleans Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram (14) during the first half at FTX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images / Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images

The New Orleans Pelicans' 6-29 start to the year shocked many who thought the team could be a contender in the Western Conference this year. New Orleans won 49 games last season, the second-most in franchise history, and hoped the acquisition of Dejounte Murray would propel them toward the top of the standings.

Instead, the Pelicans have the worst record in the NBA, and many feel that changes must be made. Brandon Ingram's name has been mentioned in many trade rumors since he will be an unrestricted free agent next summer. A new rumor from NBA writer Jake Weinbach suggests the team may be interested in acquiring Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler before next month's trade deadline and would use Ingram in any deal to acquire the Miami forward.

"As the Heat entertain offers with teams around the league, Miami could contact New Orleans in an attempt to orchestrate a multi-team deal that would send Ingram to South Beach."

Brandon Ingram is a name to monitor for the Miami Heat in trade discussions surrounding Jimmy Butler.

As the Heat entertain offers with teams around the league, Miami could contact New Orleans in an attempt to orchestrate a multi-team deal that would send Ingram to South Beach.

— Jake Weinbach (@JWeinbachNBA) January 4, 2025

The four-time all-star has voiced his displeasure with the situation in Miami and asked for a trade. Miami recently suspended Butler for seven games for "conduct detrimental to the organization," and he will serve his suspension without pay. Butler is in the final year of his contract and has a player option for $52 million next season.

Nov 16, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram (14) brings the ball up court against the Los Angeles Lakers during the second half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images / Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

New Orleans is currently over the luxury tax, and any deal to acquire Butler would have to include Ingram's $36 million contract, some additional assets, or a third team to facilitate the deal. Butler wanted to seek a long-term extension with the Heat, but Miami denied his request for a multi-year deal. Ingram is currently out indefinitely with an ankle injury.

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