The Miami Heat have not traded Jimmy Butler yet, but a recent report suggests there may be a deal down the road that could include more than one contentious star.
According SNY's Ian Begley recently suggested that the Heat may be interested in Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle as part of a Butler deal.
"Keep an eye on Minnesota in a Butler deal," Begley wrote. "In the offseason, the Heat were one of the teams that expressed interest in trading for Julius Randle, per SNY sources. Randle has remained on the Heat's radar during the Butler saga, sources say.
"I don't know if there are any active trade talks between Minnesota and Miami. But the two teams have been in touch on Butler trades."
NBA Rumors: The Heat may trade their controversial star for another
Assuming Minnesota and Miami would exchange the All-Star talents, it could be a needed change of scenery for each. Butler has been suspended multiple times this season, and has been public about his desire to be traded.
Through 25 games, the veteran is averaging 17 points and roughly 11 field goal attempts per game. It may be fair to suggest that he would be more productive in a new environment.
Randle has not necessarily been a perfect fit with the Timberwolves. He's averaging 18.9 points through 46 games, but it is not clear if he has a distinct role alongside Anthony Edwards. Edwards is a ball-dominant talent like Randle, and there may not be a way to "make it work."
The Heat may also be intrigued by Randle because of what he was able to accomplish with the New York Knicks. He showed he could be a primary scorer while also co-existing with a point guard like Jalen Brunson. It could be argued (if not proven) that a trio of Randle, Tyler Herro, and Bam Adebayo would be a more versatile offering than what the Heat currently have with Butler.
Further, Randle was willing to accept a great deal of responsibility even before the Knicks became a true Eastern Conference contender. Miami would receive a player who would likely welcome a new challenge.
The February trade deadline is almost here, and both the Heat and Timberwolves may be quite busy before then.