Bill Simmons Floats LeBron-for-Butler Trade to Warriors as Thought Experiment

The podcast suggestion is being discussed as media speculation rather than a real trade pursuit.

Overview

Simmons framed a LeBron James–for–Jimmy Butler swap as a “for the good of the sport” idea meant to make the league more fun.
His concept would pair James with Stephen Curry in Golden State and send Butler to a Lakers roster increasingly centered on Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves.
Coverage notes significant hurdles, including James’ expiring deal, his approaching 41st birthday, and doubts that he would commit beyond this season.
Analysts also question on-court fit and long-term value, pointing to Butler’s contract and spacing concerns that have complicated lineups elsewhere.
Context for the chatter includes the Warriors’ 16–16 start and lackluster form versus the Lakers’ stronger record, with no indication of active talks between the teams.