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[Jolly Sports News] Boston Celtics legend Paul Pierce weighed in Tuesday on the swirling rumors that the Miami Heat might trade Jimmy Butler ahead of the NBA trade deadline.
Reports earlier in the day indicated that the Heat are open to entertaining offers for Butler, with three Western Conference teams already linked as potential landing spots. However, Pierce believes a different Western Conference contender—the Denver Nuggets—would be the ideal fit for Butler. He shared his thoughts during an appearance on *Fox Sports 1*.
“The best fit for Jimmy Butler would probably be the Denver Nuggets,” said Pierce. “I think they need another go-to guy to help [Nikola Jokic] out. … If they find a way to add Jimmy Butler to the Denver Nuggets, I think you’re going to be seeing Jimmy and Joker raise another championship trophy—if they don’t have to play the Celtics.”
Jokic is having a career-best season, averaging 32.3 points, 13.6 rebounds, 10.2 assists, 1.8 steals, and shooting 50% from three-point range through 19 games. Despite his dominance, the Nuggets are just 12-10 in a competitive Western Conference, due in part to Jamal Murray’s struggles in what has been his least efficient season since his rookie year.
Adding Butler could provide the Nuggets with another star to complement Jokic, alleviate pressure on Murray, and improve Denver’s championship odds. However, a deal would likely require the Nuggets to part with veteran sharpshooter Michael Porter Jr. to make the contracts work.
While risky, Pierce’s endorsement highlights how Butler’s defensive tenacity and clutch performances could make him a transformative addition to Denver’s roster.
