The Los Angeles Lakers are currently going through a head coaching search after firing Darvin Ham following an early playoff exit. The team’s front office is also being tasked with upgrading the roster around stars Anthony Davis and LeBron James, assuming he returns to the team. James is eligible to opt out of the final year of his contract to become a free agent. However, most around the sport believe he ultimately will re-sign with the Lakers on a new deal.
But with James’ legendary career likely coming to a close in the next season or two, the pressure is on Los Angeles to field a contender. Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka understands this and will be armed with three first-round draft picks to use at his disposal in trade talks. The team has been linked to multiple stars this offseason already but there may be one that nobody is talking about. That would be forward Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat who has been dealing with his own contract issues.
Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images
Butler attended the Los Angeles Sparks’ 81-72 win over the Dallas Wings on Friday night and made some interesting comments while speaking to a reporter on the sidelines.
“For some reason 22 looks good in purple and gold,” Butler said. No. 2 rookie draft pick Cameron Brink, L.A.’s star power forward, currently wears Butler’s jersey number for the Sparks.
In all likelihood, Butler was just trolling but with his situation in Miami unsettled, maybe he is looking at different landing spots. Additionally, the No. 22 for the Lakers is already retired to honor Elgin Baylor.
But a trio of James, Davis, and Butler would be one of the best in the league, giving the Lakers another star to work alongside. His age would be the only downside as Butler is 34 years old. This would give the Lakers three stars over the age of 30 which typically doesn’t end well for teams.
Butler’s comments also come shortly after Heat president Pat Riley slammed Butler for talking trash to teams with Miami already eliminated. It was a strange moment from Riley and one that could see Butler want out.
A move to land Butler could extend the Lakers’ championship window with James on the roster. Los Angeles owes it to James to give him another chance to go for a title, especially with him still playing at such a high level deep into his career. Last season, Butler averaged 20.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. He is still playing well, on both sides of the ball, and could make a massive impact on the Lakers’ championship chances this year.
Butler would have to be traded for this to happen in 2024, but the Lakers could have some pieces to send to the Heat. Miami would likely ask for shooting guard Austin Reaves and all three of the Lakers’ first round draft picks, but Los Angeles may be able to maneuver away from trading him. He is entering the final guaranteed year on his contract before a player option for next season. If Butler is deadset on getting himself to the Lakers, Miami may have no choice but to trade him to avoid watching him walk for nothing in 2025 (he has a player option for 2025-26).
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.