With ESPN reporting Wednesday that Jimmy Butler prefers a trade from the Miami Heat, the Phoenix Suns might need to get creative in acquiring the star forward, who they have been linked to over the last few weeks.

Jimmy Butler is starting to play hardball with the Miami Heat with his long-term future in South Florida the subject of increasing speculation. ESPN's

A source who has spoken to multiple teams told The Miami Herald that Butler is considered available on the trade market. Butler was non-committal when asked earlier this month if he wants to remain with the Heat. But there’s nothing to suggest that a deal was imminent, and no indication that the Heat would cave to his preferences.