Report: Rockets unlikely to pursue Butler

The Houston Rockets are unlikely to pursue Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler, sources told The Athletic's Sam Amick.

Butler reportedly has his hometown Rockets among his preferred destinations as the Heat have become interested in potentially moving the six-time All-Star. Other teams Butler is apparently eyeing include the Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors, and Phoenix Suns.

The 35-year-old reportedly plans to decline his $52.4-million player option for the 2025-26 season in hopes of signing another long-term contract.

The Rockets rank second in the Western Conference with a 17-8 record. They were reportedly chasing stars this past offseason, including looking to acquire more draft picks to land Suns forward Kevin Durant or another top-level player.

Butler said earlier this week that trade speculation doesn't bother him "one bit." He's averaging 18.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.2 steals this campaign - his sixth with the franchise. Miami reached the NBA Finals in 2020 and 2023 with Butler.

The Heat take on the Detroit Pistons on Monday.