After leading the Miami Heat to the NBA Finals last year, Jimmy Butler didn’t have the same fortune this season. He suffered an MCL sprain during the Heat’s Play-In game against the Philadelphia 76ers, sidelining him for the remainder of the games. This injury has sparked trade speculations.
The Heat were eliminated in the first round by the Boston Celtics, the same team they defeated last year. This early exit has given Butler more free time, which he has spent, among other activities, attending a WNBA game.
Butler was spotted in Los Angeles watching the Sparks play against the Dallas Wings. During an interview at the game, he mentioned spending considerable time in L.A. since his offseason began. “I’m doing a lot of stuff I probably shouldn’t be doing,” Butler said. “Trying to stay out of the way. Being in L.A. as much as possible because I realize the Sparks are great, the L.A. team is really good. The Sparks are building something new.”
“For some reason 22 looks good in purple and gold.” – Jimmy Butler courtside in Los Angeles pic.twitter.com/ZDisNHWdUg
— Nikki Kay (@NikkiKaySN1) June 8, 2024
When asked about Cameron Brink, the Sparks’ star player, Butler made a cryptic remark that seemed to hint at a potential future for himself. “For some reason, 22 looks good in purple and gold,” he said.
Brink wears number 22 for the Sparks, who sport purple and gold colors, similar to the Los Angeles Lakers. Butler also wears 22 for the Heat, leading to speculation that he might be hinting at a possible trade to the Lakers.
Butler has two years remaining on his contract with the Heat, but recent rumors have suggested a potential trade, especially after reports of a feud with Heat president Pat Riley. The Philadelphia 76ers have expressed interest, willing to offer Butler a max contract if he decides to leave Miami.
— Crystal Scar (@crystalscarr21) May 4, 2024
For the Lakers, acquiring Butler could be crucial as their championship window narrows with LeBron James nearing the end of his career. Butler, who averaged 20.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5 assists last season while shooting 49.9 percent from the field and 41.4 percent from three-point range, could provide a significant boost to a contending team. Only time will tell if such a trade will materialize.
