Jimmy Butler was already a legend by 2017— the time he left the Chicago Bulls. His fans were hopeful that one day, their favorite would have a ring. But now that he’s 35, heading toward the end of a glorious career, a painful question looms at large. Well, two questions. First: What’s next for the forward? Second: Will Butler have his chance at the championship? Amidst all the hopeful and bleak speculations, the NBA trade market is heating up.

Earlier this year, Pat Riley’s Miami Heat reportedly rejected Jimmy Butler‘s extension offers, and rumors swirled in October that he’s likely to turn down a $113 million extension. Besides, with his $52.4 million player option looming, Butler seems set for free agency. Rather than let him walk after failed talks, the Heat could trade him, seizing the opportunity to stockpile future assets before it’s too late.

HoopsHype’s NBA Insider, Michael Scotto has shared his input on Jimmy Butler’s future in the bidding wars. He shared: “I think teams around the league are certainly monitoring Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat.” Scotto added: “And I say that because for rival executives, the Knicks before they acquired Mikal Bridges, looked at him. The Golden State Warriors have been keeping tabs on him as well.”

It’s not surprising to know that the Golden State Warriors have a keen eye for Jimmy Butler. The front office is looking for the ‘missing piece’ that could help Stephen Curry and Draymond Green win their fifth title. Moreover, the Dubs are allegedly looking for the right fit to trade for the likes of Jonathan Kuminga, De’Anthony Melton, and a few others. Besides, the Dubs could be one of those dreams that could keep Butler’s championship dreams alive.

However, there is a greater challenge for Pat Riley & Co. moving forward in the league. Well, the challenges revolve around Jimmy, as he is without an extension and his injury woes keep taking him out of the lineup. Besides, how long can the 35-year-old remain a part of Miami’s young or to put it subtly, new core?

Can Jimmy Butler be at the core of Miami or is Pat Riley looking for something else?

Michael Scotto also stated: “For Miami right now, they’re in the middle of the pack in the East. They thought that they would be better. They’re going to have a big decision to make on Jimmy. He’s 35 now. Is he a part of that core with Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo?” The math is simple here: Bam Adebayo is at the center of Heat’s plans. Tyler Herro too, is taking a spot beside Adebayo.

As for Jimmy Butler, his availability for the team has always been a major concern and question. Besides, a 35-year-old with a history of injuries eyeing a max extension? A long shot, no doubt. Moreover, team owner Pat Riley wanted the assurance of his presence on the court more than anything else. As a 6x NBA All-Star, there are no doubts about what Jimmy Butler can do on the court. But, a prolonged absence and uncertainty in games cannot get him a contract.

But then again, Butler might just be the wildcard the Warriors need to reignite their championship ambitions. He’s currently averaging 19.0 ppg, with 5.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists. His field goal % is a whopping 55.7. Moreover, even the Los Angeles Lakers have their hawk’s eye fixed on the power forward. Jimmy Butler is indeed an asset for any team. But, looking from the front office’s perspective they demand availability and Butler has heavily failed in that point; repeatedly.

Therefore, it will be interesting to see what the Miami Heat front office does until the trade market hits the deadline on February 6, 2025. Do you think Pat Riley will put Jimmy up for a bidding war?