NBA Notes: Suns, Jimmy Butler, Bulls, Zach LaVine, Sixers

Butler has requested a trade from the Heat and reportedly wants to team up with Kevin Durant and Devin Booker in Phoenix.

To strengthen their trade flexibility, the Suns recently traded their unprotected 2031 first-round pick for multiple lower-value picks. Despite this, the Heat are reportedly not close to moving Butler, who has been suspended twice since his trade request.

Butler, averaging 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists, is set to make $48.8 million this season, with a player option for $52.4 million next season. 

• Along with that, the Suns are reportedly exploring a trade that would send Bradley Beal to the Bulls in exchange for Zach LaVine. We have that full story here.

Bulls

Lonzo Ball has attracted trade interest after returning from knee issues, with the Los Angeles Lakers reportedly eyeing a reunion, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer.

Ball, on an expiring contract, has shown flashes of his former self and is drawing attention for his defense and playmaking ability.

The Lakers, who drafted him second overall in 2017, could target Ball as a secondary ball-handler and versatile defender, similar to Bruce Brown, particularly if the cost is low.

• Chicago is open to trading Ball, along with LaVine and Nikola Vucevic, as they sit at 19-26 in the standings. Ball is averaging 6.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists this season. After missing the past two seasons following knee surgeries, the 27-year-old is in the final year of his $21.4 million contract. 
• LaVine reportedly prefers to stay with the Bulls despite ongoing trade rumors. LaVine has been consistently mentioned in trade talks, with teams like the Lakers, Nuggets, Bucks, and Suns expressing interest.

76ers

The 76ers are frustrated with Joel Embiid‘s continued absence with injuries, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Embiid has played just 13 games this season, contributing 24.4 points and 7.9 rebounds.

The Sixers were expected to contend for a championship with Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey, but injuries have kept the trio from playing together. We have that full story here.