Jimmy Butler, Haywood Highsmith and Pelle Larsson for Andrew Wiggins, Gary Payton II, Kevon Looney, Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, a 2025 first-round pick (top-5 protected) and a 2027 first-round pick

We’re talking about a team that can put together a very competitive offer for Butler. And given how things have been going lately (Golden State is 3-10 in their last 13 games), the Warriors should be more motivated to make a dramatic move than they were a month ago.

Stephen Curry’s heyday is in the past. His career won’t last forever. And without a real upgrade, his team is unlikely to be a title contender for 2025.

Butler undoubtedly would, even considering the number of players the Warriors are releasing here (new cap rules that came with the current collective bargaining agreement have made salary adjustment much more difficult than it used to be, especially for teams that are already expensive) .

His defense, coupled with Draymond Green’s, would make it harder for Golden State to score. His playmaking would lead to Curry appearing more open.

He may not space the floor the way the Warriors normally like their wings, but Jonathan Kuminga doesn’t really help in that regard either.

This move would also force Steve Kerr to shorten his rotation, which he will have to do with or without such a deal.

Yes, that’s a lot to give up. After last season, it was fair to hold the futures of Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski in high regard. But neither has made much progress in 2024-25. And again, Curry won’t be able to be a real title contender forever.

For Miami, it’s the two fascinating young talents mentioned above. Andrew Wiggins can help the Heat compete for a play-in spot (particularly in the East) in the short term. And he has a moveable contract that could be converted into additional assets down the road if Miami wants to embark on a rebuild.

That and two firsts are a solid return for an often-unavailable 35-year-old who may be heading into free agency this summer.