Warriors Eye Jonathan Kuminga for Andrew Wiggins Swap with Heat

Merlin sees Golden State quietly reshaping the deadline after Jimmy Butler’s season-ending torn ACL. The Warriors are exploring sending Jonathan Kuminga to Miami for Andrew Wiggins after Kuminga’s Jan. 15 demand to be moved. Butler has been given "strong assurances" and told to "tune out any noise" about being traded, even as his $56.8 million cap hit looms. Merlin senses logic in a Wiggins return. He knows Wiggins’ defense and 39.8 percent three point touch would fit beside Stephen Curry, swapping youth upside for a known veteran role. GM Mike Dunleavy said "I don't envision that" trading Butler and praised his game and longevity. Payroll and health keep the tale shifting as the deadline approaches.