Part 4/8:
Observers note that the Miami Heat may not see themselves as immediate contenders in the postseason scenario this year, especially when looking toward rivals like the Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Oklahoma City Thunder. On top of this, Miami might be more inclined to consider a trade for Butler if it facilitates a roster overhaul to keep pace with an ever-evolving Eastern Conference landscape.
Trade discussions also hinge on salary considerations. Providing Butler with a lucrative extension is an option for the Heat, yet his age—now 34—complicates their commitment to such a deal. The argument made is that Miami does not want to prolong Butler's contract at the expense of future flexibility, especially in an upcoming summer that promises notable free-agent movement.