The Phoenix Suns have expressed genuine interest in trading for Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler, according to NBA insider Marc Stein. However, for this potential deal to materialize, veteran shooting guard Bradley Beal would need to waive his no-trade clause. Stein noted that there is little indication that the Heat is willing to exchange Butler for Beal without additional assets.

Reports from ESPN’s Shams Charania indicated that the Suns are among the top teams on Butler's list if he were to be traded by the Heat. Notably, the Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks, and Houston Rockets have also been mentioned as possible suitors for the six-time All-Star. In response to the swirling trade rumors, Bradley Beal commented that he does not pay much attention to speculation surrounding him, stating, 'I'm a Phoenix Sun, and I'm here, and I'm in a uniform.'

Butler's imminent $52.4 million player option for the 2025-26 season has cast uncertainty over his future with Miami, prompting speculation that the Heat may consider a trade rather than risk losing him as a free agent after the 2024-25 season. Beal's current $50.2 million salary facilitates a potential player swap, yet questions about his long-term contract might deter other teams from pursuing him. With a $53.7 million cap hit next season and a $57.1 million player option for the 2026-27 season, additional complexities surround his potential departure. Furthermore, according to Brett Siegel of Clutch Points, there are currently no signs that Beal would be willing to waive his no-trade clause, leaving the Suns with significant hurdles to navigate before the February 6 trade deadline.