Stephen A Smith, Brian Windhorst and Chris "Mad Dog" Russo explain all factors in play with Jimmy Butler set to leave the Miami Heat.

A day after Charles Barkley said the Phoenix Suns “stink,” ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith called them “soft” based on what the “NBA people” are saying as he put it. A team with Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal that went into the season with championship aspirations shouldn’t have a losing record and be 12 th in the West even with a number of injuries.

Stephen A. Smith is never afraid of stating his opinion, no matter who it upsets. Right now he is very opinionated about his view of the Phoenix Suns. Speaking on “First Take,” via Legion Hoops, Smith said the Suns are “soft” and that is the main reason why they are fighting to trade for Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat.

Jimmy Butler may soon discover that the Miami Heat aren't the only team balking at his reported asking price on his next contract.

Miami is being patient while Butler is suspended, knowing that other teams will start to get desperate near the trade deadline.

The ongoing Butler-Heat saga sparked a lively discussion among the studio show’s analysts/former NBA players Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith and Shaquille O’Neal in the early hours of Wednesday morning after Tuesday night’s games.

Marc Stein recently highlighted the Suns’ strong desire to acquire Jimmy Butler, citing the interest of team owner Mat Ishbia.

Jimmy Butler is apparently open to getting traded anywhere, so we looked at all 29 teams and wondered if they should trade for him.

Kendrick Perkins believes that the Suns are pursuing Jimmy Butler, so they can please and extend Kevin Durant.

Smith also called out Durant’s leadership earlier in the season, where Durant clapped back, calling him a clown on X, but Smith makes a compelling point. Durant has not been a great leader during his time with the Suns, and it is something the roster needs.

Most trades will wait until summer if only because the 2025 NBA Draft order is set by then and free agency becomes clearer. Still, this is when buyers and sellers identify themselves based on their place in the standings.