The Athletic NBA Daily: “Celtics troubles | Jimmy Butler to Milwaukee?” – January 16, 2025
Hosted by Dave DuFour, Zena Keita, and Esfandiar Baraheni with insights from Sam Amick.
1. Trade Alert: Phoenix Suns Acquire Nick Richards
The episode kicks off with a significant trade involving the Phoenix Suns and the Charlotte Hornets. The Suns have acquired Nick Richards and a 2026 second-round pick from the Hornets in exchange for Josh Okogie and three additional second-round picks (including picks from Denver for 2026 and 2031).
Mike DuFour highlights the strategic nature of the trade:
“Not only do they make this up Athletic, upgraded center, they also save themselves $20 million.” ([03:43])
Chris Keita elaborates on the Suns' motivations:
“They bring in Mason Plumlee who has not been able to do much either. And you have a guy like Nick Richards who is a legitimate rebounder... I think that's a win for the Suns.” ([04:56])
The Suns aim to bolster their rebounding prowess and defensive capabilities without overextending financially. Mike adds enthusiasm about Richards’ potential synergy with Devin Booker:
“He's going to run the floor hard. You can see him and Booker in transition, probably working pretty well together.” ([04:56])
Meanwhile, the Hornets appear to be focusing on future assets, indicating a shift in their competitive strategy.
2. Team Performances: Raptors' Resurgence and Celtics' Struggles
The discussion shifts to the Toronto Raptors, who have surprisingly secured two consecutive wins against competitive teams. Despite initial challenges, the Raptors are now performing cohesively with key players like Scotty Barnes and RJ Barrett back in form.
Chris compares this to the Boston Celtics:
“Boston lately has looked very shaky... They are struggling.” ([06:10])
The Celtics have experienced inconsistency, particularly on the defensive end, leading to unexpected home losses. Mike expresses growing concerns:
“The defense has slipped like markedly... I think if you're Boston, you have a high variance style, but they're so hell bent on settling for an okay shot.” ([08:26])
Chris points out the inefficiency in shot quality and defensive lapses:
“Their starting lineup has not been performing the way we'd expect them recently... they got to find something.” ([08:26])
The hosts agree that without significant adjustments, the Celtics may languish alongside other top-tier teams struggling to maintain their form.
3. Warriors vs. Timberwolves: A Tale of Two Teams
Analyzing the Golden State Warriors' narrow victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, the hosts delve into the Warriors' current identity crisis. Despite appearing to be waving the white flag, Steph Curry showcased his enduring prowess by hitting seven three-pointers.
Chris reflects on the game’s dynamics:
“It's two teams that ended up on this collision course of trying not to lose, but maybe we are not good enough to not lose.” ([11:13])
Mike notes the absence of key players like Draymond Green affected the Warriors' performance but acknowledges Curry’s standout performance:
“Steph Curry hit seven threes. Kind of a reminder, hey, look, I'm still at this high level.” ([10:56])
The game illustrated the Warriors' struggle to find consistency amidst internal uncertainties, while the Timberwolves grapple with their own season-long identity issues.
4. Fan Engagement: Disappointment Showdown – Suns vs. Bucks
A listener posed an intriguing question: Since the 2021 Finals where the Bucks and Suns faced off, which team has been the bigger disappointment?
Chris argues the Suns have been more disappointing due to their aggressive roster moves that haven’t yielded the expected success:
“I would say Phoenix. They've doubled down so much into what they're trying to do. It always kind of felt like fool's gold for them.” ([16:10])
Mike concurs, emphasizing that the Bucks have already secured a title, mitigating their disappointment:
“It's definitely Phoenix because number one, the Bucks won the title and that matters quite a bit.” ([16:43])
The consensus leans towards the Suns bearing more disappointment for their high expectations not translating into championship contention.
5. Main Topic: Jimmy Butler's Potential Trade to Milwaukee Bucks
The core of the episode revolves around the speculation of Jimmy Butler potentially being traded to the Milwaukee Bucks. The hosts explore the viability and implications of such a move.
Sam Amick, an NBA insider, provides insights into the trade dynamics:
“Milwaukee is underperforming... they have a history of going after big fish... it would at least be worth chewing on.” ([20:36])
However, the trade is fraught with complications, particularly involving the Suns’ acquisition strategies and Bradley Beal’s no-trade clause.
Mike presses further on the Suns’ interest:
“Can you give us any more information on Milwaukee and how serious are they about a potential Jimmy Butler trade?” ([20:36])
Sam explains the intricate relationship between the Suns and Beal's agent, Mark Bartlestein, which complicates potential deals:
“Mark, who I spoke to, continues to state there is absolutely nothing going on between the Suns and the Heat that relates to Bradley Beal.” ([24:32])
The discussion highlights that while Milwaukee might be a logical destination due to their need and Butler's fit, various contractual and strategic hurdles make the trade uncertain.
Chris adds perspective on other potential suitors like the Chicago Bulls, emphasizing the complexity of aligning team needs and player preferences:
“Chicago knows all about Jimmy Butler and contract extensions. They're in a tough position.” ([26:27])
Ultimately, the episode underscores the unpredictability surrounding Butler's future and the multiple variables that influence any potential trade.
Conclusion
The episode of The Athletic NBA Daily provides a comprehensive analysis of recent trades, team performances, and the high-stakes possibility of Jimmy Butler's move to the Milwaukee Bucks. With expert insights from Sam Amick and dynamic discussions between hosts Mike and Chris, listeners are equipped with a nuanced understanding of the current NBA landscape.
Note: Time stamps correspond to the podcast’s timeline to provide context for quoted sections.