Jimmy Butler Trade Rumors: Warriors Front Office Intrigued By Possible 'Bargain' Deal

The Golden State Warriors previously appeared to be out on a potential Jimmy Butler move, though the organization may revisit that stance ahead of the Feb. 6 trade deadline.

According to The Athletic's Anthony Slater and Marcus Thompson II, "Butler's situation in Miami has devolved to a degree that the perceived price tag continues to tumble. The Warriors' middling season has upped their desperation level for some sort of a shake-up, all the way up to controlling owner Joe Lacob. Team sources have downplayed their recent involvement in conversations with the Miami Heat, but there's been a noticeable increase in intrigue from the front office about the idea of Butler at a bargain."

One one hand, the Warriors are just 23-23 on the season and could use a second star to pair with Stephen Curry. On the other, overpaying for Butler—who could potentially decline his player option for next season and become a free agent in the summer—could seriously impact the team's depth and long-term plans.

To make a move for Butler, the Warriors would need to match his $48.7 million in salary. That almost assuredly would mean departing with Andrew Wiggins ($26.2 million) and two of Gary Payton II ($9.1 million), Kyle Anderson ($8.7 million), Buddy Hield ($8.7 million) and Kevon Looney ($8 million). As Slater and Thompson noted, Jonathan Kuminga is "considered essentially off the table for any deal involving Butler or Zach LaVine."

So, would Wiggins, the expiring contracts of Payton and Looney and draft capital move the needle for the Heat?

That remains to be seen, though the Warriors might be inclined to do some version of that deal for LaVine instead.

As Slater and wrote, "LaVine is viewed by some within the organization as the safer option. At 29, he's five-and-a-half years younger and some $6 million cheaper than Butler this season, though his contract extends longer and he's had some recent health concerns. There are risks all over the board."

Butler is also the better two-way player, with far more postseason pedigree.

The Warriors might be better addressing other needs, such as a stretch-5, with a smaller trade ahead of the deadline. Staying put doesn't seem like the best option, however—the status quo isn't going to get this team over the hump in the loaded Western Conference, with the Dubs currently outside of the Play-In Tournament berths.