Bradley Beal Responds to Suns-Heat Jimmy Butler Trade Rumors

Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler has been at the center of the NBA's most persistent trade rumors this season. While his agent has come out strong against the idea that Butler has an ideal list of trade destinations, NBA insiders have reported that the Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets and Phoenix Suns are all potential destinations.

The Suns are a particularly interesting idea, with how aggressive the team has been under owner Mat Ishbia. Phoenix traded for future Hall of Famer Kevin Durant ahead of the 2023 trade deadline and and acquired Bradley Beal that summer to go along with homegrown All-Star guard Devin Booker. After a disappointing first-round playoff flameout in 2024 and a sluggish start to the 2024–25 season, Phoenix is once again a rumored destination for a trade block star in Butler.

Beal knows how being in Butler's position feels. He was a frequent target of trade speculation during his time with the Washington Wizards, until he was ultimately dealt to the Suns. As a result, he's not willing to wade into the rumor mill until a deal actually comes to fruition.

"The same thing until one of them comes and says something to me and talks to me," he told reporters on Friday, per Gerald Bourguet of PHNX Sports. It’s just out there. I’m a Phoenix Sun and I’m here and I’m in uniform. I don’t pay attention to that, man. They did that with me for 10 years.”

Butler is averaging 19.4 points, 6.1 rebounds and five assists per game this season and is the type of multitalented wing that could slide into any team. He is particularly valuable come the postseason, when he routinely takes things to another level. After being swept in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves a year ago, the Suns have to be laser focused on putting together a team that can make a long grueling run through the playoffs.

The NBA trade deadline is set for February 6, 2025 at 3 p.m. ET.