The Phoenix Suns have agreed to trade their unprotected 2031 first-round pick to the Utah Jazz in exchange for three first-round selections, the team announced Tuesday. ESPN’s Shams Charania was first to report the deal.
The Suns will acquire the following picks, according to Charania:
– Least favorable 2025 first-round pick between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Minnesota Timberwolves
– Least favorable 2027 first-round pick between the Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves and Utah Jazz
– Least favorable 2029 first-round pick between the Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves and Utah Jazz
The Suns have added quantity to their limited picks to offer in a potential trade with the February 6 deadline looming. Phoenix also has a 2025 second-round pick via the Denver Nuggets. He traded three second-rounders to Charlotte for center Nick Richards last week.
Could this deal lead to the Suns trading for Jimmy Butler?
According to Heat reporter Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun Sentinel, Phoenix’s acquisition of three draft picks is a step toward a Jimmy Butler trade.
A Butler trade, Winderman reported, is expected to involve at least four teams.
Butler’s relationship with the Heat has frayed publicly since Miami opted not to extend the superstar last offseason. Miami suspended Butler for seven games earlier this month, and Butler has made his preference known to be traded.
The Suns are a sought-after destination for Butler, John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports reported last month.
The Cavs have the best record in the NBA so far this season at 36-6 to get an idea of where this top pick will land.
Phoenix is 21-21 this season after a blowout loss to the Cavaliers on Sunday, tied with the Golden State Warriors for the 10th seed in the Western Conference.
The Suns return to action Wednesday night at the Brooklyn Nets.
