As the NBA trade deadline inches closer, rumors surrounding Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler continue to gain traction. The latest twist in the ongoing Butler saga comes from NBA legend Paul Pierce, who recently urged the six-time All-Star to consider leaving the Heat in favor of a move to the Milwaukee Bucks. Pierce shared his thoughts on an episode of KG Certified, the podcast hosted by his former Boston Celtics teammate Kevin Garnett, emphasizing that Butler would be a better fit on a title-contending team.
At 35, Butler remains a force on the court, averaging 18.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.7 assists over six games this season, with an impressive 48% shooting from the field. However, Pierce believes Butler could maximize his impact by joining a team that is in a better position to contend for a championship immediately. He stated, “I like Jimmy Butler on a team that can get you over the top, like Milwaukee. Jimmy Butler to Milwaukee makes more sense to me. He could be that missing piece, taking the pressure off of Giannis and Dame Lillard.”
Pierce’s analysis touches on Milwaukee’s recent struggles, as they currently sit near the bottom of the league standings. He suggests that adding a proven, tenacious player like Butler could stabilize the Bucks’ season and help create a formidable Big 3 alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. Both Pierce and Garnett agree that Butler’s move to Milwaukee could be transformative, giving the Bucks a genuine chance at the NBA title.
Currently, Butler’s contract with the Heat includes a player option for the 2025-26 season, meaning he has the flexibility to enter free agency as early as this summer if he chooses. His lack of a contract extension last offseason has fueled speculation about a potential trade, especially as the Heat risk losing him without compensation if he decides to walk.
The possibility of a move has sparked debate among fans and analysts. Many believe Butler’s dedication to the Heat has been clear since his arrival, helping lead Miami to the NBA Finals twice, most recently in 2023. However, for Pierce, the opportunity to win a title in Milwaukee could be too significant to ignore.
While there are other suitors, including the Houston Rockets, Pierce dismissed the idea of Butler joining a young, rebuilding team. “If I’m 35, I want to go somewhere I have a chance to win,” he added, underscoring the motivation Butler might feel at this stage in his career.
With each passing day, the clock ticks closer to decision time for both Butler and the Miami Heat. Whether he remains committed to Miami or embraces Pierce’s advice for a shot with Milwaukee, the move could significantly alter the Eastern Conference landscape.