Is Jimmy Butler interested in another Eastern Conference team?

Jimmy Butler may already be considering his alternatives outside of Miami as he prepares for what may be his final performance there. According to Brian Lewis of the New York Post, Miami Heat player Butler “likes” the Brooklyn Nets as a prospective free agent destination. Butler is eligible to become a free agency in 2025, according to Lewis, and he has decided not to extend his contract with the Heat before that date.

The Nets are currently in full rebuild mode, particularly after dealing Mikal Bridges to a rival team earlier this summer. However, this also means that they will have max-level cap space to work with, especially if Ben Simmons leaves in 2025. Brooklyn also boasts a number of talented young players aged 25 and under to work with (such Nicolas Claxton, Cameron Thomas, and Day’Ron Sharpe).

The six-time All-Star Butler, 34, is under contract for $48.8 million next year, with a $52.4 million player option for 2025-26 that he can refuse to test free agency. The Heat recently taken a stance that may suggest their willingness to keep Butler beyond next season. However, if they fail to accomplish so, the young Nets could emerge as a surprise leader for Butler.