Recently, Stephen A. Smith took to ESPN to give a harsh criticism of Phoenix, as well as some friendly advice on why he thinks they should pursue Jimmy Butler via trade.

Stephen A. Smith explains why something needs to be modified with the Heat's viewpoint on current players following Jimmy Butler's trade request.

Stephen A. Smith explains how the disconnect between Jimmy Butler and the Heat could impact Miami's ability to attract star players moving forward.

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

INDIANAPOLIS — 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.

In his current standoff with the Heat front office ( read: Pat Riley ), Miami attempted to avoid the “burn everything down” portion by suspending Butler seven games for conduct detrimental to the team ( read: attempting to force a trade ).

Consider Chicago Bulls legend Scottie Pippen an expert in talking championships.  Pippen won six rings alongside Michael Jordan on the Bulls. Regardless of how

Jimmy Butler was heavily criticized following his return to the court for the Miami Heat in a loss against the Denver Nuggets.

There was no pretense of Butler being a vibrant part of the Heat for Friday’s game. He shot by himself in warmups. There was none of the choreographed palm-slapping with teammates that’s a typical part of any pregame. Kevin Love did run out to him just before the center-tap and shake hands. It looked like the first time they’d seen each other.

Jimmy Butler is back with the Miami Heat after his suspension, but nothing has really changed. Butler wants the Heat to trade him and the Heat will continue to try to fulfill that request ahead of the NBA’s Feb. 6 trade deadline.

Add longtime NBA executive Bob Myers to the long list of people who has had enough of Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler. Butler returned to the court Friday night