Houston Receives:
Jimmy Butler
Miami Receives:
Reed Shepherd
Jeff Green
Jae'Sean Tate
2025 HOU pick swap with OKC or BKN
2026 pick swap with BKN
2027 HOU pick swap with BKN
2028 pick swap
2029 first-round pick top 10 protected
2030 pick swap
How this financially makes sense:
Houston has secured the Non-Taxpayer Mid-Level Exception worth $12,860,000 for this offseason. Since teams can now utilize these exceptions in trades, Houston can use this exception in their hypothetical bid for Jimmy Butler. Additionally, Reed Shepard’s contract (or whoever Miami wants Houston to select with the third overall pick) will be approximately $10,128,480 in his first season. Combining the Non-Taxpayer Mid-Level Exception ($12,860,000), the third overall pick’s salary ($10,128,480), Jeff Green’s salary ($9,600,000), and Jae’Sean Tate’s salary ($7,065,217) totals $39,653,697, enabling the Houston Rockets to absorb Jimmy Butler’s $48,798,677 contract. This trade will increase Houston’s cap by -$9,144,980, leaving them $15,799,913 below the Tax Threshold and $23,139,913 below the First Apron.
Houston’s Reasoning:
This trade would make Houston a contender. Jimmy Butler, who was born and raised in Houston, would bring a new dynamic to the Rockets. Not only would he improve their weak perimeter defense, but he would also add a significant offensive presence. If this move doesn’t push Houston to the top, nothing will. While the pick compensation might be steep, Butler’s playoff performance and leadership make him worth the investment. With three top-five picks already, the core of the team is set, and it’s time to compete for championships. Following the trade, I would consider putting Jalen Green on the trade block, with Jared Vanderbilt as a preferred target to further bolster perimeter defense.
Miami’s Reasoning:
While losing Jimmy Butler is undesirable, this is a realistic and valuable package for him. This trade would leave Pat Riley with an additional $9 million exception, some expiring contracts, and a range of picks that could be used to acquire an All-Star player aligned with Bam Adebayo’s timeline. In my opinion, if Butler is determined to leave, Miami would likely accept this offer. Let me know your thoughts..