Everything about the Miami Heat has revolved around Jimmy Butler in recent weeks and it is not because of his performances on the court. Far from it. The 35-year-old has barely played recently and when he has, he has looked a shell of the player we know he can be.

On the other hand, the Heat have now suspended Butler on three occasions this season while they continue to search for a trade for him ahead of the fast-approaching deadline.

Butler’s exit is inevitable. The Phoenix Suns and the Golden State Warriors have been linked with him lately.

On the other hand, the Heat will need to replace Butler and move on to their next era. That won’t be an easy task. The situation of an All-Star guard might be one worth keeping an eye on though.

According to Shams Charania, the Sacramento Kings are expected to open up talks to potentially deal All-Star De’Aaron Fox ahead of February 6 trade deadline.

There are many reports in the media which suggest that the San Antonio Spurs are the leading contenders in the race for Fox but oddsmakers have placed the Heat as the favorites.

There are many things that could work in the Heat’s favor as well. First is the fact that they need an offensive focal point with Butler on his way out. Fox can be that guy, as he is one of the most dynamic scorers in the league right now and is averaging 25.2 points per game this season while making 46.8% from the field and 32.4% from three.

Second is Fox’s friendship with Bam Adebayo. The two were teammates at the University of Kentucky.

Of course, for any move to happen, the Heat will need to agree to a trade deal with the Kings, which won’t be easy. It might very well end up depending on what kind of a return they are able to bring in for Butler.

Fox is currently in the fourth season of a five-year, $163 million contract. He is set to become a free agent in 2026.