The Miami Heat superstar sends a stunning message to the Lakers.
The Los Angeles Lakers have always been a popular destination for NBA superstars. It is not rare for players to express an interest in playing for purple and gold.
However, it always surprises me when someone says it in public, especially when it comes from a player of Jimmy Butler’s quality.
On Friday night, the Miami Heat superstar attended a Los Angeles Sparks game while wearing a Cameron Brink jersey. Brink had previously stated that Butler is one of her favorite players in the league. Prior to the game, the two took a snapshot together.
More than anything else, NBA fans were captivated by Butler’s interview during the game. Butler responded to Nikki Kay’s questions by saying that “22 looks good in purple and gold”.
Jimmy Butler Teases A Lakers Move in Latest Remarks
Butler and Brink both wear #22 on their respective teams. So it’s wise of Butler to leave it unclear if he’s referring to Brink or his own jersey. Butler, on the other hand, is well aware of his actions.
The 34-year-old great is entering the final season of his deal. The Miami Heat have not committed to extending his contract beyond the 2024-25 season. If they are unwilling to do so, Butler may be traded this offseason. No front office would want to risk losing a player of Butler’s quality for free, even if their name was Pat Riley.
Butler could easily make his way to the Lakers if he wanted to. There is ample precedent in the NBA for superstars dictating their destination. Butler wields enough power in the Miami Heat organization to request a trade to wherever he wants.
The Lakers have three first-round picks and many mid-level salaries to deal for Butler. Butler is a good player, but his fit with LeBron James and Anthony Davis is dubious. The six-time All-Star avoids taking too many three-pointers and is most effective when he has the ball in his hands.
This would be a challenge on the offensive end for whoever becomes the next Lakers head coach. But if you had the tremendous combination of Butler, James, and Davis, that is a task anyone would be eager to face.
