Is Jimmy Butler staying or leaving? That’s one hell of a mystery the Miami Heat and the superstar need to solve. Even with Pat Riley boldly claiming that they’re not trading the 35-year-old, some things are oddly unconvincing, especially when you know that Butler has made his decision and cannot be moved. Meanwhile, some new speculations are finding their place in the very active NBA trade market. But before that, Jeff Teague has something to say about Butler.

Teague and Butler were teammates at the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2017-18 NBA season. Back then, the 6x NBA All-Star forward was averaging 22.2 points per game and JT was at 14.2 ppg. Nonetheless, that one season they spent together as teammates exposed Butler’s bold and strong-headed personality before Jeff Teague.

So, speaking on the Club 520 podcast, the 2021 NBA champ shared: “Jimmy kind of probably checked out. I mean playing with him being on his teammate in Minnesota. When he says he wants out; he is out. Straight up. Yeah, it’s over with, so they probably need to trade him.” It’s not new for Jimmy Butler to look for an exit space. During his time with the Timberwolves, the 35-year-old sought a payday, but KAT’s contract extension made that seem like a distant dream.

In fact, it was Jeff Teague who gave an insight into Butler’s Minnesota exit. He narrated: “That summer, Jimmy was like, ‘Y’all see what the team looks like without me and what we look like with me. Take care of me. I want to get paid right now.’ But it was KAT’s turn to get the extension. We were like, ‘It’s just KAT’s turn, bro. Your turn is next.’ He was like, ‘Nah, my turn is now.'”

But here at Miami, Jimmy Butler is playing without a contract. Pat Riley didn’t want to re-sign him over the offseason. And the superstar reportedly denied a $113 million extension later in October. So now, the situation feels somewhat weird as most experts, including Teague, believe the veteran guard will force his way out no matter what.

Meanwhile, a new connection is emerging in light of Jimmy Butler’s ‘preferred’ trade desires. Surprisingly enough, it’s not from any of those major teams like the Lakers or the Warriors. Instead, the forward is being linked with De’Aaron Fox, who is currently earning $34.85 million this season! And Jeff Teague has a simple suggestion for the Heat owner Pat Riley.

Miami Heat boss urged to deal for Sacramento Kings PG in Jimmy Butler trade

De’Aaron Fox has been a hot topic in the trade market. He recently made headlines when speculations about the Sacramento Kings putting him up for trade came to light. But then, of course, things went radio silent. But now, suddenly, the 27-year-old star is being connected with the Miami Heat. And after Jeff Teague reveals Jimmy Butler’s past habit, it’s safe to say Pat Riley should look for a trade. But most importantly, Fox could be the one because of his good rapport with Bam Adebayo.

Teague shared: ” I hear a lot of people talking about De’Aaron Fox not being happy. Him and Bam being really good friends. Miami and Sacramento can just throw the ‘whatever’ out now. They didn’t fire their coach for whatever. So they can get rid of De’Aaron Fox, not get rid. But like, let him and Jimmy both go and move on, be an easy swap.”

Not too long ago, De’Aaron Fox’s name was being attached to four big teams of the NBA. ESPN insider Tim MacMahon discussed the teams linked to the star point guard. He mentioned the LA Lakers, Houston Rockets, Spurs, and Miami Heat. The analyst told the audience to keep an eye on the Lakers and Spurs. But, he shared that he “heard Miami” since Fox and star Bam Adebayo both went to the University of Kentucky and were teammates.

So, Pat Riley already has the pair before his eyes. De’Aaron Fox and Bam Adebayo- college basketball teammates and old friends. Jimmy Butler seems uninterested in staying with the team, as he aims to pursue a championship win before retiring. As of now, the Miami Heat might seem like the team that can bring the trophy and glory back on track.