In a major trade just before the 2025 NBA trade deadline, the Miami Heat have agreed to send star Jimmy Butler to the Golden State Warriors in exchange for Andrew Wiggins, Kyle Anderson, and a protected first-round pick. This trade is part of a multi-team deal that also involves the Utah Jazz and Detroit Pistons.
The deal includes significant details such as Butler’s agreement to a two-year, $111 million contract extension with the Warriors, which will keep him with the team through the 2026-27 season. While the trade is not yet finalized, it marks a significant shift for both Butler and the Heat.
Details of the Trade
The specifics of the trade include the Heat receiving Andrew Wiggins, Kyle Anderson, PJ Tucker, and a 2025 first-round pick, while the Warriors acquire Jimmy Butler. The Jazz are receiving Dennis Schroder from the Heat, and the Pistons are set to receive Lindy Waters and Josh Richardson from the Warriors.
This move is seen as an effort by the Warriors to bolster their roster with a seasoned star to support Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, aiming for another championship run. For Miami, this trade signals a fresh start after a rocky period with Butler.
The trade comes after a tumultuous season for Jimmy Butler with the Heat. Last spring, team president Pat Riley had indicated that Butler’s injury history and limited availability would impact the team’s willingness to offer him a long-term contract extension.
The situation worsened as the Heat’s performance declined, and Butler’s struggles on the court grew more evident. Despite Butler having a player option for the upcoming offseason, the Heat seemed increasingly likely to move him as trade rumors gained momentum.
Trade Negotiations and Developments
Initially, there was significant denial from Butler’s camp and the Heat about any trade intentions. Butler’s agent refuted reports suggesting a trade request, and Riley issued a statement asserting Butler’s place in Miami. However, things changed after a Jan. 3 game where Butler’s lack of effort was reportedly called into question.
Butler was subsequently suspended multiple times for team-related issues, including missing a flight and walking out of a shootaround. This led to a formal trade request, culminating in the deal with the Warriors.
The trade to the Warriors provides the team with the veteran star they needed after a series of struggles. Earlier in the season, Golden State’s leadership, including Curry and Green, had resisted making a panic trade. However, with the Warriors’ decline in performance and the failure of younger players to step up, it became clear that an impactful trade was necessary.
The acquisition of Butler, a seasoned and impactful player, is seen as a game-changer, potentially giving Curry and Green another opportunity to compete for a championship, similar to when Durant joined in 2016. This trade is one of several significant moves in a busy trade deadline season.