Latest Jimmy Butler Trade Update is Best Case Scenario for Celtics

The Boston Celtics finally got over the hump and won the NBA title in 2024. One obstacle they had to overcome was the Miami Heat, who they faced in the last four out of five postseasons. Fortunately for them, they didn't have to go up against Jimmy Butler, who was out with an injury in that series. Before then, Butler had defeated the Celtics in 2020 and 2023 Conference Finals.

To be sure, Boston got the best of Butler in 2022 on their way to the NBA Finals. Over the last couple of years, the two sides have created one of the most competitive modern-day rivalries in the league.

Based on the latest developments, that is seemingly coming to an end, and in the most favorable way for the Celtics.

Butler already demanded a trade from the Heat after Pat Riley refused to give him the contract extension he desired. The 35-year-old has been sabotaging the team with a lack of effort since then, resulting in his seven-game suspension from the team.

As Miami desperately tries to find a new home for Butler, the mercurial superstar has even more demands. Per the latest report by Chris Haynes, which was later confirmed by Kevin O'Connor, Butler's camp is telling certain teams to not trade for him. One of those teams is reportedly the Milwaukee Bucks.

"A few other teams received word that Butler has no interest in being there. One of those other teams? Sources told me the Milwaukee Bucks were also told to back off."

- Kevin O'Connor, Yahoo Sports

This is great news for the Celtics. Milwaukee potentially turning Khris Middleton and role players into Jimmy Butler would have made them a very dangerous team to face in the playoffs.

There aren't other Eastern Conference teams that could realistically trade for Butler. It also seems like he is forcing his way to the Western Conference, with the Suns being the most likely destination. Sending one of the best players in your conference to the West would mean that the Celtics are winning the trade deadline without even making a move.

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