Five years! That’s how long Jimmy Butler has been in Miami, and he has even led the Heat to the NBA Finals twice. However, he has fallen short of winning the ultimate prize both times. Many believe he might not be the guy who leads this team to a championship. That’s one of the reasons Butler’s name has constantly been in trade rumors recently. Amid the buzz, the Miami side suffered a massive setback ahead of tonight’s Magic encounter, as Erik Spoelstra shed light on JB’s latest availability status.

Yes, Butler was ruled out of tonight’s road encounter. The reason? A stomach illness. Addressing his absence, Coach Spo said, “I think you just have to deal with whatever hand you’re dealt in this league, regardless.”

And that’s exactly what Spoelstra did as he revealed the starting lineup for the game, which included Tyler Herro, Dru Smith, Duncan Robinson, Nikola Jovic, and Bam Adebayo. Apart from Jimmy Butler, another major change is that Haywood Highsmith is coming off the bench, after starting in his last seventeen appearances.

Jimmy Butler’s current health issue came to light during last night’s OKC encounter after he left the game in the first quarter because of a twisted ankle. And he did not return for the remainder of the night. But the reason was deemed an illness instead of a sprained ankle. Well, the Heat lost the game playing without their star. Obviously, Butler’s absence leaves a massive void in the team because he has been solid this season, averaging 18.5 points and nearly five assists. Moreover, it ignites a bigger fire to his trade speculations.

Multiple suitors are interested in Jimmy Butler but Pat Riley’s win-now approach could cause hindrance

Of course, many title-contending teams could benefit from adding Butler to their squad. Especially because he has the reputation of switching gears in the playoffs and playing at an MVP level. And front offices realize his worth as Clutch Points’ Brett Siegel’s report suggests that Lakers, Spurs, and Thunder have been “quietly mentioned in league circles” as potential suitors for the star forward.

Meanwhile, the Nuggets are being considered the ‘dark horse’ amid all the trade buzz. Well, Nikola Jokic and Co. are reportedly willing to put Michael Porter Jr. and Zeke Nnaji in the trade block to acquire another superstar. And they could readily/ willingly make an offer to the Heat. Meanwhile, the Warriors are also being considered as potential suitors, as reports suggest that the Bay is now open to trading their young core, which includes Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and Moses Moody!

However, it is believed that Pat Riley is only looking for offers that can help the Heat with their win-now approach. Well, that would rule out a lot of options involving young talent, who are not ready to play in high-stake playoff games just yet. Could the Lakers suddenly turn into a trade favorite? Considering they have the likes of the D’Lo, Hachimura, and/or Reaves reportedly on the block.

Riley would also not hesitate to keep Butler in the squad if he does not find an intriguing offer, despite previous internal tensions. That limits Jimmy’s potential trade destinations. Where do you think Butler will land by the time the February trade deadline arrives?