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Are the Suns the team to beat after clinching a playoff spot?
Published
3 years agoon
By
Joshua
Are the Suns the team to beat after clinching a playoff spot?
Are the Suns the team to beat after clinching a playoff spot?
After beating the Miami Heat 111-90, the Phoenix Suns clinched a playoff spot. The first team to do it… in March. That is insane as playoff berths typically do not happen in the early days of of March, but the Suns did it.
Picking up their 53rd win of the season allows them to be 8.5 games ahead of the Grizzlies, 9 games ahead of the Warriors, and 11.5 games ahead of the Jazz. Safe to say no one is catching up to Phoenix for the number one seed of the Western Conference.
It is also safe to say that the Suns have been on fire and nothing is going to slow them down; per OddsShark, they are also +450 to win the NBA Title this year, tied with Brooklyn and Golden State. That is the most recent betting line for who is going to win the championship. However, at the beginning of the season, the Suns were not even close to be favorites.
Per FanDuel, the Suns were +1450 to win the championship. Nets, Lakers, Bucks, Warriors, and the Jazz were all ahead of Phoenix. With only 16 games to go that is an incredible turnaround as it goes to show who is the better team in all of this.
But how can that be proven, what makes the Suns the team to beat? If they even are, that will all be broken down right here, right now.
The Suns could be better than the Warriors
People are going to agree, laugh, or just reject this concept that I have put out. However, it may be true. Sure the Warriors have Draymond Green, Klay Thompson, Stephen Curry, Andrew Wiggins, and all those other talented players. But they have been struggling recently with injuries and have gotten in a bad stretch of basketball. The Warriors have slowly been losing their touch.
They have been falling out of the second seed to Memphis, 3-7 in their last 10 games, and they are still trying to figure themselves out. What I mean by “figure themselves out” is that with all these injuries they have fallen and have become disconnected. Honestly, without Draymond to be there for Golden State, they have become discombobulated.
Without Green, this franchise is 16-16 this season. But, going deeper, they are 3-7 in their last ten without him. That includes from 2/27 to 3/7 without winning a single game. When you lose to the Knicks and the Lakers you know you have issues.
Injuries have been a huge factor on why the Warriors have been so bad recently; or, rather, in a bad slump. But how are they worse than the Suns?
How are the Suns edging out the Warriors?
The Suns have been battling injuries too, but they have remained intact. No Chris Paul for the remainder of the season is not a problem for the Suns. Currently, this franchise is 5-3 without Paul. The significance comes when everyone realizes that Cameron Payne has been out and Holiday hasn’t solidified himself yet as of that Chris Paul injury. As of that date, now that Payne is back it has been somewhat more smooth.
But during the games that Cameron Payne has missed, the Suns are 16-5. Also, when Devin Booker was missing games due to injuries and H/S Protocols, Phoenix has been 8-3 without the superstar. So with all that being said about injuries, that is one area where the Suns have completely dominated the Warriors in.
So there is no excuse coming from The Bay as the Suns have had more significant injuries by far that could have ruined the remainder of their season.
Defense – an area where Golden State is pathetic in
The Suns are a more complete team than the Warriors, that can be said without question. Why? Because not only have the Suns built a mindset on offense, but also on defense. The Warriors, even during their worst years, have been all about offense more so than defense.
Everyone on the Suns play defense intensely, smartly, and has almost a passion for it. Curry, Thompson, and different players on that roster do not play defense. Steve Kerr and the Warriors have always set the precedent that if they want to win the game it must come from shooting the ball.
Defense is just not their strong suit, or their speciality. To be real, if a game came down to offense-only I would take Golden State. And vice versa if it was a defense-only contest I would then take Phoenix.
The Warriors just do not have that hunger of playing defense as none of those players know how; not all, as people like Draymond Green are excellent defenders. However, the Warriors are always having high-scoring games.
The last time the Warriors held a team to 80 points it came against the Cavaliers on January 9th. The final score was 96-82, but that Cleveland team was depleted and had no true momentum heading into that game due to all the changes, injuries, and H/S Protocols.
The last time the Suns held a team to 80 points it came against the Wizards on February 5th. The final score was 95-80. Also, take note that the Suns are always blowing out their opponents. The Warriors are either getting blown out or narrowly getting a win. Think about it, defense wins games.
Clutch games – the Suns are unmatchable in that department
The Suns have been deemed clutch by many around the league; doesn’t matter who it is, the Suns have been deemed the most clutch team that we have seen all season. Per NBA Stats, the Suns are ranked number one in the clutch. How about the Warriors… surely with all that talent they must rank very well. The Warriors rank eighth in the clutch.
The Suns record is 27-5 in 32 games, while the Warriors record is 20-14 in 34 games.
The Suns rank number one in:
- Per 100 Possessions
- Per Game
- Per 48 Minutes
That was the traditional setting where the Suns ranked at. Even when putting “teams clutch against opponents” the Suns rank number one. Warriors rank number five. In scoring the Suns rank number one, while the Warriors rank number five.
Those statistics right there prove how the Suns are better than the Warriors in terms of being more clutch. It doesn’t get any better than that. Some people always think that the team with flashier players are going to be the most clutch ones on their team. Just because a team has a collection of players that seem to be clutch on a team doesn’t always turn out to be just that.
That is why for the people that have been sleeping on the Suns are now awaking to the power they possess. As a team, they are tremendous.
Lastly, the Suns are more flexible than the Warriors
Without fail has the Suns been more flexible than the Warriors. With all the changes, injuries, ups-and-downs the Suns have endured proves how flexible Phoenix is. When the Warriors have a roadblock, it causes to stumble and wait for that player to come back. However, for the Suns, they plow right through and don’t look back.
Monty Williams and the coaching staff can do that and recognize those issues to correct the things that need to be corrected. That is why the coaching staff of Phoenix is so superior, along with other attributes and skills, same goes for the players.
It is like having the mentality of “next man up,” it truly is. Phoenix is able to get another guy into a position of success easily to where it benefits everyone and everything around them. The Warriors don’t have that mentality as they never prepare for the worse. One team is able to have the depth awareness to fix these issues, while the other one can’t.
Can that not be a fair assessment of things between these two teams? Being flexible and having the ability to change on a dime is so good and cannot be mastered by all 30 teams of the NBA. Suns have found that and have adapted that perfectly.
Who’s the biggest threat to the Suns?
The biggest threat to the Suns could be the Warriors, but that has been debunked on who is better. However, in the Western Conference it is the Warriors (still), Clippers, and Nuggets. Everyone else is questionable. Questionable teams would be Grizzlies, Lakers, and the Jazz.
Since the Lakers have LeBron, and it is Playoff-Bron, you can never count him out. The Grizzlies have been red-hot as of late and with Ja Morant being who he is, everyone should take them seriously. Because if the NBA ended today and the Grizzlies had to take on the Timberwolves, I take the Grizzlies. That is how good they are.
The Jazz are still interesting with Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert. Okay, fine, that entire team is great as Jordan Clarkson has had our number a few times. Same goes for Mike Conley, their starting point guard.
Is it true the West is getting stronger as the games keep coming?
Yes, from teams 1-10 have made dramatic improvements that are increasing their probability of playoff success. It should scare us, or give us a sense of urgency, as who knows what is going to happen when the playoffs come. The playoffs are another beast that should be taken with great caution. Anything can happen anytime, anywhere.
The West has grown considerably and made teams like Memphis, Denver, Los Angeles (the good team – Clippers), Dallas, and even Utah stronger than ever. That is a very scary sight to behold. So, yes, there is much truth to the West getting stronger as the games keep coming.
In the end, everyone is a threat to the Suns on their path back to the NBA Finals.
Should teams be worried of the Phoenix Suns come the postseason?
One-hundred percent, why? Due to the fact that the Suns have always found a way to win a game, have endless motivation, and the fact that they are that darn good. Teams that even appear to have an edge over the Suns should be nervous, because the Suns are always finding a way past that edge. They have more advantages than disadvantages.
Doesn’t matter if it is injuries, H/S Protocols, or anything like that. For example, all of last year’s postseason series before going up against the Bucks proved that the Suns always found a way to win. They swept the reigning MVP’s team, grooved past the LakeShow (when good) without Chris Paul and other players at full health, and stopped the momentum of the Clippers by going up huge on them.
Plus, take this season, Suns have been completing comebacks. Most recently against the New York Knicks.
Should we be shocked that the Suns have done so well this season + getting the playoff berth first?
No, why? Because they have grown so much in the offseason after making a run to the NBA Finals. They have improved their roster and have found a way to motivate themselves throughout the season on their journey back to the NBA Finals. They have carried momentum since making the playoffs last season.
Truthfully, they are picking up where they left off. However, the only difference is that they have a new game plan and new players. Plus, the Suns were in the top ten of NBA Final Favorites. In the offseason, pre-season, and then heading into the regular season has shown the Suns to be legit.
The signs have been pointing towards the Suns being very good. The only shocking thing here is that the Suns are the first to 40 wins, 50 wins, and the first to clinch a playoff berth. But it was to be expected after having incredible runs in the season, setting records, and just being this fascinating team.
Why is the playoff berth so significant?
The playoff berth cements the Suns as the top team, this makes the Suns undoubtedly the best team in the entire NBA. The whole world can see that by checking the NBA Standings, it is proven and they will remain the number one seed.
The Suns get more publicity, more recognition, and it allows the Suns to be a certified playoff team.
It is just another accolade to the legendary season the Suns are having. This is all being set up to have the Suns prepped for the NBA postseason, and hopefully the NBA Finals.
So now the question has to be asked, “are the Suns the team to beat?”
Are the Suns the team to beat after clinching a playoff spot?
Yes, since clinching this playoff spot it has cemented more fear into the hearts of their opponents. Why? Because now teams have to worry about the first-round of the playoffs and having to face the red-hot Suns. Play-In teams will factor that in, eighth seed team will factor that in, etc.
We have covered this before on if the Suns are the team to beat, and, yes, they are the team to beat. Without fail. Phoenix has been on fire and has beaten out the other 29 teams in the NBA; that is no small task and now teams will have to answer to the Suns if they want to win a championship, or even have the possibility to compete.
There is no team in the NBA that can match to the energy, playing style, or anything else comparable to the Suns. The Suns are in their own world, category, and if you want to have a chance in the postseason then you must have Phoenix out of the postseason.
This is a reality that needs to be learned by all teams: the Suns will not go away easily. Injuries, changes in schedules, H/S Protocols, nothing will stop the Suns as they will make adjustments. They are the team to beat as if the Warriors can’t compare to the Suns, then no one can.
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Featured
OPINION: Tyrese Haliburton Isn’t Overrated, He’s Underrated
Published
3 weeks agoon
May 14, 2025By
Joshua
Two weeks ago, The Athletic asked NBA players who they thought was the most overrated player in the association. Their response? Tyrese Haliburton. Fast forward two weeks, and the same “overrated” man has eliminated 64-win Cleveland Cavaliers in five games.
Even back it up a series prior where he dismantled Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Milwaukee Bucks, which some were not expecting.
After that horrific poll came out to slander his name, Haliburton has responded humbly and has let his performances do all the talking. In fact, that’s this entire Pacers’ team mentality and ability. I’ll address their underrated season(s) in a separate article.
For now, let’s explore why Haliburton is only not overrated, but most definitely underrated.
Game 2 Against The Cavs
To refresh memories, and to have a good start to lay the foundation, I take us all the way back to Game 2 where Indiana secured a 2-0 lead over Cleveland.
In 84 seconds, an “overrated player” scored seven points. This included the game-winning three-pointer to seal the deal. What makes this even better is the fact that Haliburton did it in Cleveland with fans chanting “overrated” and trying to get into his head.
When the moment calls for it, the 25-year-old rises up and doesn’t shy away. That’s what up-and-coming superstars do.
Game 5 Against The Cavs
To send Mitchell’s team home, Haliburton clutched up and dropped 31 points on them. He had a very efficient game of going 10/15 from the field. Plus, eight assists, six rebounds, one steal, and one block.
He was one of the main factors to the Pacers climbing out of a 19-point deficit. Let’s not forget about that tiny detail.
He left it all out on the court, statistically and what’s not counted, for his team to move onto the Eastern Conference Finals.
Overall Against The Cavs
Throughout this entire series, Haliburton was spot on and was electrifying to watch. Yes, he had a bad Game 3. However, he would later make up for that in Game 5. Game 4 was a pure domination from Pascal Siakam, Myles Turner, and Obi Toppin. He wasn’t needed in that game.
As a side note, which is the beauty of the Pacers. They have so many options on that team that can pop off at any moment that you don’t know who’s going to lead them statistically; not because they are bad, but because they are that good and talented.
When a team has quality, reliable depth, they won’t have to struggle game-to-game on who will be that guy. Indiana has at least five players who can be that guy when their number is called into the spotlight.
Plus, it helps when you have an orchestrator in Haliburton. I’ll get to that in a minute.
Haliburton Is The Epitome Of Mr. Clutch
Throughout this entire postseason and season, Haliburton has been able to showcase his composure in stressful situations and how to excel when the game is on the line.
Haliburton is 10-for-11 when taking a shot to tie or take the lead in the final 90 seconds of the 4th quarter or overtime this season.
That is 91% percent, and nobody nationally is giving him his props. Some players within the NBA is not giving him his props.
How could someone be overrated when they are producing this type of statistic?
Future star of the NBA Cooper Flagg said it best: “People hate him, but he’s so good.”
An absolute baller in the clutch. Not an emotional statement, but a factual statement; just take a look at the numbers.
Haliburton Is The Master Of Fast Breaks And Setting Pace
The Indiana Pacers averaged over 103 possessions per game this season, which saw them lead the league in pace. Haliburton led the charge, as his speed and understanding the tempo of the game allowed for his opponents to always be a step behind.
This didn’t just give them a few points here and there, it inflated them to new heights. They averaged 17.3 fast break points per game, which put them top-five in the league.
Combine that with them leading the league in pace, it made them one of the most deadliest teams in the NBA to try to guard – and it was all funneled by one Tyrese Haliburton.
His basketball IQ and understanding certain mechanics of the game allowed him to unlock a greater side of Indiana basketball, which head coach Rick Carlisle fueled immensely.
Beyond All That, His Playmaking Is Unmatched
People don’t realize how incredible this is, but the man averaged 9.2 assists per game with an outstanding 5.61 assist-to-turnover ratio, making him only the second player in NBA history to average at least nine assists per game with a turnover ratio above 5.5. The only other player to achieve this was Muggsy Bogues in the 1989–90 season.
Following the All-Star Break, Haliburton was averaging 11.9 assists per game and committing only one turnover per game. How could someone do something this great and be overrated?
This level of playmaking efficiency is almost unreachable, it brings him to a new level of superstar potential and downright greatness. Not hyping him up, simply just letting the numbers do all the talking.
Beyond this season, if we take a look back in 2023, fans thought he was the next up-and-coming Steve Nash, Jason Kidd hybrid. Why? Well, back in late December Haliburton was an absolute Point God tearing through the league and posting consecutive 20/20 games.
On December 28th, 2023, Haliburton dropped 20 points and 20 assists against the Chicago Bulls. Did he have high turnovers? Nope. In fact, he didn’t record a single turnover. But, wait, it gets even more impressive.
On December 31st, the man dropped 22 points and 23 assists against the New York Knicks. He joined John Stockton and Magic Johnson in being the third player ever with back-to-back games of 20 points and 20 assists.
To take it another step further, Haliburton combined for 43 assists and only two turnovers. That’s four less turnovers than Stockton, and six less turnovers than Magic. He had three more assists than Magic, and two more assists than Stockton.
What he’s been as of late isn’t a fluke, he’s been doing high-level playmaking since 2023. Performances like these are why he’s one of the most underrated players in the league, put them together with present-day games. Don’t ever call him the most overrated player again.
On Top Of Playmaking, Haliburton Can Score
This isn’t a wild concept, but Haliburton is most certainly a guard who can score and score at will.
Fun fact, he leads the NBA in clutch three-point shooting percentage at 40.7%. Would someone who is overrated be able to do this?
Haliburton in this season shot only 47% from the field, 38.8% from deep, and has a true shooting percentage of 61.6%. To say he is just efficient would be an understatement.
To have an elite, almost rare, efficiency level like his would make him one of the best in the league. However, he gets diminished for some ridiculous reason.
In addition to all this, when he is on the court this season, he was a +222. The season prior to this one, he was around +294. Not bad for an “overrated” player, if I do say so myself.
Postseason Success Can’t Be Undermined
Postseason success is a big make-or-break deal for a lot of players, especially if they are trying to become the “next big thing” in the NBA or that ultimate superstar in general or for their respected franchise.
For Haliburton, he is building an incredible resume, which is only getting started. This is back-to-back postseasons of his team reaching the Eastern Conference Finals, an incredible feat for a young and hungry organization.
They ran through the likes of the Bucks, New York Knicks, and tried taking on the eventual champs, the Boston Celtics. Many thought they couldn’t handle bigger teams due to their ups and downs against Boston, and facing a New York team who was banged up and without Jalen Brunson.
Without taking anything away from them, they competed hard and were the ultimate underdog team last postseason. This postseason, they decided to double down as the underdogs and rip through their competition.
Giannis and Mitchell were no match for Haliburton, as his team heads to the conference finals once more. From being the underdog to now being the top dog; something Indiana hadn’t had since the Reggie Miller days.
Many called his postseason performance last year a fluke and that he got lucky, Haliburton proved them all wrong Tuesday night to send one of the best teams in the league packing. There are no more excuses, the Pacers are a legit team that could be Finals bound here very soon.
Conclusion: Tyrese Haliburton Is More Underrated Than Overrated
If you’ve gone through this entire article and still agree with all the media analysts, players, and fans who are against Haliburton, then that is your prerogative and I understand that.
However, if I removed the name and face from this individual’s career and accomplishments for his team. Then many would overwhelming take this individual and crown him the second-coming for this fresh, young, hungry, ready-to-strike organization.
Haliburton is everything an organization would want in a player. He isn’t cocky, flashy, annoying, or loud with his words or actions. In fact, he is the complete opposite on and off the court. He lets his game do all the talking, has amazing perspective, and is incredibly humble.
His play is legit game-changing to the point where some teams have no answer on how to stop it. Haliburton knows the game better than some within the NBA, as his playmaking and overall decision making is spot on.
His shot creation and overall tendencies with the basketball is almost like poetry in motion. Something I continuously marvel at. Haliburton continues to prove that what he does and how he does it is not luck, is not some hopeful prayer to the universe; it is in fact hard work and being that guy.
The players who voted him as the most overrated player in the league are jealous of him, why? Because they aren’t him and will never be him.
For him to be this proven, so far, and to still be doubted and treated like he’s this small-time player continues to prove my point of him being underrated. If you’re legit and nobody respects or takes you serious, then how can you be overrated and not underrated?
Remember, Haliburton is no fraud. The stats, team-centered accomplishments, and individual accomplishments all speak for themselves. There’s a reason why he’s going back-to-back Eastern Conference Finals at another shot for the championship.
Like this team, he is special. Tyrese Haliburton is only going up from here, you all can quote me on that.
Featured
Top 15 Players On Trade Deadline Watch
Published
4 months agoon
February 1, 2025By
Joshua
CourtSideHeat has released their top 15 players who should be watched closely as we approach closer to the NBA Trade Deadline. To jog memory, the deadline is February 6th.
While the exact destinations aren’t revealed yet, as some are still narrowing down, I will break down each player and where they’ll most likely end up. Plus, cover the basics of why they are getting traded, contracts, etc.
#1 – Jimmy Butler
Jimmy Butler being on the move should be no shock due to his antics, multiple team-imposed suspensions, and tripling down on wanting to get out of Miami.
The odds of him being traded increased significantly after reports said Pat Riley lowered the price tag for the aging talent. This indication came after teams like the Golden State Warriors didn’t want to unload their entire team for a 35-year-old who will hit free agency next offseason.
We suspect he will be traded sooner rather than later, as Miami has to get some return for Butler. Now, will it be the Warriors or the Phoenix Suns? That remains to be seen; there are many obstacles to getting to either team.
Those two franchises are the only ones willing to give Butler the payday he wants. Could there be another team? Sure, but, like many contending teams, they don’t want to jeopardize their positioning for an aging player who will cost too much.
Whether it’s the teams listed above or another team, teams are still trying to figure out if he’ll be a headache in the locker room, if his contract is too much, and if it’s worth having a 35-year-old on their roster.
With all that said, a team will potentially trade for him, and that’s why he is on this list.
#2 – De’Aaron Fox
A shocking name many didn’t expect to be on the chopping block; however, he is, and the bridges between him and Sacramento may be permanently burnt.
We all know the controversy surrounding him and the Kings, as the front office is ready to move on for a “star-like talent.” Fox has let it be known he wants to join the San Antonio Spurs, which would be a deadly combination of him and Victor Wembanyama, amongst all the other amazing talent.
Despite many teams wanting him, the Kings’ price tag is high, and many teams can’t afford him due to having limited assets. It would have been better to do it in the offseason, but the Kings were impatient.
If a team were willing to pay what Sacramento wants, then best believe De’Aaron Fox will be on the move. Fox isn’t a free agent until 2026-27, so he’ll be making $34 million this season and $37 million the following season.
This season, Fox has been a superstar offensively and defensively. Averaging 25.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game. Those numbers are why teams want him, as he is seen as a cornerstone piece by many.
A team like the Spurs has all the assets to make that deal happen. This is why fans must watch Fox for the next few days.
#3 – Zach LaVine
It wouldn’t be a trade deadline without hearing the rumors and reports of Zach LaVine potentially going somewhere new. Unlike last year, though, the 29-year-old is balling out, averaging 24.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game.
What looked like one of the worst contracts in the NBA for a team to take on now looks like a good contract that can lead a team to the Promise Land. No exaggeration, LaVine has 180’d his entire trade value through incredible, healthy play this season.
He’s making $43 million this season and $45 million the following season. He has a $48 million player option attached for 2026-27. Given his recent momentum swings, positively benefiting him, teams have kept an eye on him.
Two teams to monitor would be the Warriors and Denver Nuggets. They can afford to take on a huge contract, and it would greatly benefit them, who need the depth, experience, and talent.
#4 – Zion Williamson
Williamson may have finally eaten his way out of New Orleans, as the Pelicans may be looking to blow up their team and restart. They are 12-37, injuries have plagued them, and they have been dealing with Zion for way too long.
The Pelicans might have had enough and be ready to send him to another team for the right price. Williamson is in the second year of his five-year, $197 million contract.
Despite all the issues and roadblocks over the past six seasons, his potential and what he has shown on the court are unmatched. He is one heck of a basketball player with the ability to be a freak of nature and put fear into the hearts of his opponents. However, he can’t stay healthy to do that long-term.
Two teams that could make a run for Williamson would be the Heat and Charlotte Hornets. They have the assets, and both teams have been rumored to be interested in the big man. Miami could justify that getting Zion is enough to replace Butler. For Charlotte, he would be a solid addition to Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball.
Something to keep track of.
#5 – Cam Johnson
Johnson has been a rising 3-and-D wing player since being traded to the Brooklyn Nets, as teams require a solid wing player who can play both sides of the ball pretty well. What makes him appealing is that he is averaging career-highs in points and field goal percentage.
He is having a breakout season at the right time. Nineteen points off 49% from the field is nothing to sneeze at. Plus, his contract is a very attainable, even affordable, one.
The 28-year-old is in the second year of his four-year, $94.5 million contract. He’s set to make $22.5 million this season, $20.5 million the following season, and $22.5 million in 2026-27. For a piece like Johnson, that is considered a steal.
Johnson’s value is at an all-time high, with teams like the Kings and Indiana Pacers heavily pursuing the wing player. CourtSideHeat projects he will most likely be traded at the deadline.
#6 – John Collins
A player who was once seen as negative about the Atlanta Hawks is now seen as positive by many during his time with the Utah Jazz. John Collins is on an expiring contract, averaging 18.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.1 steals per game.
With him being seen as less of a liability offensively and defensively, a number of teams may decide to take on his expiring contract and give him a new one to see if he can fit in with them.
According to Mike Scotto, the Kings had a trade in place to acquire Collins before the Fox news came out, and the concept was put on hold.
This is proof of life for Collins to not only be on a good team but a team that wants to contend for the playoffs.
#7 – Brandon Ingram
Brandon Ingram for Jimmy Butler? Some say it will happen; some say it won’t happen. Either way, Ingram is officially on the trade block and is a name that could be traded by February 6th.
His price tag isn’t as high as his teammate Zion Williamson or another high-caliber player. Plus, he is on an expiring contract and hasn’t played since early December due to an ankle injury.
New Orleans is a team reportedly set to hit the reset button and start from scratch. Even before this season began, the way last postseason ended for the Pelicans had reports about how Ingram’s time with the Pelicans was set to be over.
This would be a more straightforward player to move due to his expiring contract; how? Money ends this season, so it wouldn’t hurt moving forward beyond this season. Team’s salary caps wouldn’t be negatively impacted by taking on a rental unless they decided to give him a new deal.
A team to watch out for would be the Atlanta Hawks. Atlanta just lost Jalen Johnson for the season, and they want to remain competitive for a playoff spot, so they’ve been targeting Ingram. It wouldn’t require much to secure him and it would benefit the player and both teams.
#8 – Jusuf Nurkic
CourtSideHeat projects Jusuf Nurkic to most definitely be traded. Nurkic wasn’t horrific for Phoenix, but his time is certainly up in the Valley. Sadly, head coach Mike Budenholzer has alienated Nurkic and has decided not even to have a relationship with the player.
Add this to his sub-par play and with the Nick Richards trade; it is very likely fans will no longer see the center on their roster post-February 6th.
The biggest question remains of who will take him and whether the Suns have to incentivize teams by attaching a first-round pick. There isn’t a world where he remains on the roster, so why would Mat Ishbia and James Jones want $18 million sitting on their bench? Plus, think about how that would affect the locker room in the long term.
Unfortunately, Phoenix must sacrifice more to remove a giant headache from their locker room.
#9 – Bradley Beal
Despite Bradley Beal having a good run with the Suns, it is looking like he will be moved by the deadline. At least, that’s what certain fans and the team is hoping for. This is regarding acquiring Jimmy Butler.
Now, Beal’s contract is seen as one of the worst because of the number and the no-trade clause. Many teams, like the Bucks, have opted not to trade for him due to his no-trade clause and his big contract. Great player, but it’ll hurt a franchise.
There are many variables that can be used to get rid of Beal. Phoenix has to find the right team that Beal wants to play for and will take Beal, plus get any return that benefits them.
While the 31-year-old is on the chopping block for Phoenix, it looks uncertain whether a team will take him and give Phoenix something good. A handful of teams have already been ruled out by the Suns and Beal, so it only leaves a few left.
#10 – Nikola Vucevic
The Lakers and Warriors have been tied to Nikola Vucevic as they’ve shown interest in the big stretch, especially the Warriors, who would definitely want someone like Vucevic.
With their center having a terrific year, continuing to ball out, and having a career season, the Chicago Bulls should consider selling him for as much as they can get out of him from a team.
Chicago has made it clear they are listing everyone for sale except for rookie Matas Buzelis, which means a team with the right offer can come in and acquire Vucevic.
Golden State has made it known that they want the 34-year-old and are willing to pay whatever price they offer.
This season, Vucevic is going all-out with 19.9 points and 10.4 rebounds. In addition to those stats, shooting almost 40% from deep and 54.7% from the field. This is a player the Warriors will try to snatch before any other team can get him.
#11 – Clint Capela
Clint Capela has been a very underrated center in this league since joining the Atlanta Hawks; many seem to forget the paint monster he is, practically grabbing double-doubles each game.
With the 30-year-old on an expiring contract worth $22.2 million, Atlanta may try to sell off his contract to the highest bidder. One team to take notice of would be the Toronto Raptors. Reports have speculated a center swap of Jakob Poeltl going to Atlanta and Capela going to Toronto.
Beyond the Raptors, other teams need a starting center who is gritty-gutty, can secure rebounds, and bring intensity. The number one team in mind is the Lakers, who desperately need an upgrade at the center position.
Anthony Davis has been very vocal about Rob Pelinka getting a deal done that sees them getting a new center so Davis can play power forward again. A position he is more comfortable in.
The asking price for Capela isn’t high at all, which plays in the favor of Los Angeles. With that said, keep an eye out for a trade notification between these two teams involving Capela.
#12 – Kyle Kuzma
This doesn’t need much explanation as to why he is on the trade block and a player pasted onto CourtSideHeat’s list. Kyle Kuzma is the same player who has vocalized about not wanting to “fit in” with the current Washington Wizards.
There have been rumblings in the past of moving Kuzma; now, there are loud roars of moving Kuzma to a team that hits their price range.
The 29-year-old is having an awful year with horrible shooting splits across the board, as he is only hurting the team, not helping them. Beyond that, the development of the younger, newer talent suffers because of it.
Team’s selling point of taking on Kuzma would try to reinvent his career and mix and match him with players to see where he best fits, as his contract is manageable. Washington took on the hard years.
Beyond this season, Kuzma will be making $21 million and then $19 million before hitting free agency.
As the days go along, fans will hear his name in more and more reports.
#13 – Jonas Valanciunas
Making roughly around $10 million a season, Jonas Valanciunas has a straightforward contract for a team to take and try to make him into a starting center again. That shouldn’t be hard, considering this is the first time in a season he’s been relegated to the bench in his career.
Teams like the Lakers and others have been interested in the veteran big man who can still bring energy, motivation, discipline, experience, and production to a franchise.
While 11/8 isn’t as impressive to look at, if you take a look at his per 36 minutes, then you’ll be more impressed. He’s averaging 21.2 points, 14.9 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per 36 minutes. Give him minutes and a good role, and he’ll be a beast for whichever team acquires him.
#14 – Bruce Brown
Bruce Brown is an interesting name to see if he gets dealt or not, as Toronto’s use for him has dwindled due to injury, lack of production, and how massive his contract is.
How much value will the Raptors get in return for the 28-year-old wing? Not a lot. He’s on an expiring $23 million contract and is expected to become a free agent. Teams won’t give up much for a guy they can sign in free agency at a cheaper contract, saving their assets.
Despite that, the Raptors will still try to trade him to get any salvageable return for the championship-minded wing. This is very much a problematic contract to try to trade, as he may become a candidate for the buyout market if any trade doesn’t materialize.
#15 – Lonzo Ball
The Bulls have everyone except for Matas Buzelis on the trade block. This includes fan-favorite Lonzo Ball. He would be a harder sell given his injury history, but there is still value in his playmaking abilities and three-point shot.
Teams like the Hornets and Lakers have shown genuine interest in Ball, as he and LaMelo have been talked about becoming a duo. The Lakers reuniting with him as a backup point guard has been a growing possibility.
Now, would the Lakers rather have him or a legitimate center? We all know the answer, but we can’t rule them out because we don’t know if they are only making one move, two moves, getting a center, not getting a center, or trading for a player like Lonzo. They could try to get a center in the buyout market, as it’s a real possibility.
Charlotte has the assets, but won’t likely attach a pick of any significance. It wouldn’t make sense for them or any team to do that. But, they could attach players like Josh Green, Cody Martin, or even Vasilie Micić to get the deal done.
The asking price isn’t high to start with; it is convincing a team to take on his salary, being okay with him being severely injury-prone, and giving up players to make it work.
Nonetheless, Ball is a real option in the trade world before the deadline.
Conclusion:
This is the end of the list, as not all of these players will be traded, but they are most certainly players to keep an eye on in the chance they get acquired by another team.
CourtSideHeat will continue to update all these situations on our social media accounts and website. Stay tuned for more updates.
Featured
Why The Heat Will NEVER Trade Jimmy Butler To The Suns
Published
6 months agoon
December 17, 2024By
Joshua
Will Jimmy Butler be traded by the deadline? Maybe, but it won’t involve the Miami Heat and the Phoenix Suns. For Phoenix, it’ll be one of the greatest deals in recent memory. For Miami, it would put them in an uncomfortable situation in recent memory.
As it stands right now, according to multiple reports, the Suns would offer Bradley Beal and picks, most likely their 2031 first-rounder and some second-rounders.
Again, for Mat Ishbia’s team, this would be a home run—a significant addition to their championship odds. However, if this type of deal went through for Pat Riley’s team, it would cause present and future issues like fans have never seen before.
In today’s article, I will go through the top five reasons why Miami would never accept this deal in a million years.
Reason #1: Another Guard In The Rotation
Bradley Beal’s career has seen him play primarily at the two spot, shooting guard; this season with the Suns is the exception. Right now, he is playing small forward.
I bring this up to say if Miami acquires him, then they will have a guard room of Terry Rozier, Tyler Herro, Duncan Robinson, and Beal. Not only is that very competitive, but where will all the minutes be allocated?
The only way the minutes would work is for Beal to replace Butler as the team’s starting small forward, which could see a three-guard starting lineup.
This would be a true small-ball lineup that will force the front court, Haywood Highsmith and Bam Adebayo, to pick up the slack on defense and rebounding.
Beal is a fine defender. However, it could be proven difficult when a stronger, bigger opponent comes crashing into the paint/perimeter, and he may be unable to stop it. Add this to players like Rozier and Herro not being top-tier defensemen. Challenges will arise.
By adding another guard and turning him into a make-shift small forward, Miami will sacrifice elements of their team to compensate for a three-guard lineup.
Reason #2: Injuries & Availability
Since the 2019-20 season, Beal has only played an average of 52 games per season. At one point, fans saw him only play 40 games in one season (2021-22) and 50 in another (2022-23).
That’s beyond concerning when one of this team’s weaknesses is having players who are healthy and able to play more than 60 games in a season. What should concern Miami fans even more is that Beal will push through injuries to play in games; while admirable, this doesn’t mean his productivity and usefulness will be positive.
Since 2019-20, Butler has played an average of 58.2 games per season. While some can argue that he needs to play more games and has a history of getting hurt, the 35-year-old has been resilient and put the team on his back during their two trips to the NBA Finals.
He holds a different level of impact, one of which Beal does not possess. It’s not a knock on Beal, but Butler is available when his team needs him the most. Whether that be important stretches of the season or postseason.
Reason #3: Beal’s Contract
The 31-year-old is making $50 million this season, $53 million next season, and has a $57 million player option in 2026-27.
That’s a lot of money given to a talented player who is hurt often, especially with age, and doesn’t possess the same Batman-like tendencies as Butler. Plus, on top of it, he has the less-than-charming no-trade clause in his contract.
He got the NTC from the Washington Wizards to keep him there until they decided to move him to Phoenix. James Jones’ team has to deal with his NTC if they want to trade him.
Now, let’s say there is a reality where Riley goes crazy and accepts the deal. They’ll be tied down to his NTC until the end of his contract expires.
Why is this a bad thing? It’s terrible because no team in the future will want to trade for an older, more injury-prone Bradley Beal with an expensive contract with that clause. Plus, it gives Beal the option to say no if the Heat dumps to some lower-tier team.
It puts them in a horrific spot, as they get him and probably will also eat that player option. Why? Because Beal won’t get that large contract again in his career, why wouldn’t he opt into it? He would be out of his mind not to.
This isn’t a favorable world to live in if I’m a part of the Heat’s front office.
Reason #4: What The Suns Can Offer Is Absolute Garbage
I don’t mean to be overly critical or rude, but the Heat only getting Beal in the deal is horrible.
Beal is not a horrible player, not in the slightest. He is a good, solid talent that can contribute to win. Even with all that, he is an aging player who can’t do it on his own, not to the level that Butler was able to do.
Due to Phoenix being a Second Apron team, they can only put in one player. It must be a 1+1 deal; they can’t put another into the deal to match the salary. This is why Beal is the number one player in these “trade talks.”
Giving up elite talent for a good player and a half-decent pick is not wise. A 2031 first-rounder and multiple seconds won’t help the Heat in the present or the future. We are at the end of 2024, heading into 2025, which means that pick can’t be used for six more years.
In addition to the trade, exchanging Butler for Beal is a massive downgrade. One could argue that the only reason this team is competitive is Butler, especially when multiple players are injured, fatigued, or not having their typical game.
Reason #5: Miami Could Easily Fall Into A Poverty-like State
This team has solid pieces yet has never been more than a play-in team. It’s somewhat perplexing, but that’s where this team is at.
Bam Adebayo has not elevated this team, Tyler Herro has not elevated it, and nobody besides Butler has taken it to new heights. I’m not saying that Herro and Adebayo are bad players, but they have that impact and command of the game that Butler does.
A team surrounding Beal, Herro, Adebayo, and Rozier isn’t a recipe for success. While they are individually good, they won’t be collectively good. There is a massive difference. One results in stats looking pretty, and the other is winning basketball, which translates into another Finals run.
To take it another step forward, if they get Beal, and it doesn’t work out in the next season or even two, they’ll blow up the team. Why? Miami will not allow itself to remain mediocre, especially without Butler.
The ramifications of this singular (potential) trade on the Miami Heat are severe. It’s not positive, and it’s highly damaging.
Conclusion:
I love Bradley Beal, but he cannot replace Jimmy Butler. Miami is in such a unique situation that if they lose Jimmy Butler, it will have to be for some good pieces. This is not the time to settle or take losses.
To summarize, Phoenix doesn’t have the assets, or allowed to add more assets, to make a solid trade offer to Miami. Even if the deal went through, the small-ball lineup would cripple them in health, defense, rebounding and force the team to go in a different scheme.
Miami would be tied down to Beal’s contract and jeopardize their future, even past the date of his contract expiration. Lastly, this team will be filled with good players, but not ones assembled to make a past-the-second-round or Finals run.
The answer is very clear as to why the Heat will NOT be trading Butler to the Suns.
The NBA’s trade deadline is February 6th, 2025.

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