The Miami Heat were expected to be a contender in the Eastern Conference this year, similar to how they’ve been competitive for the past few seasons. However, the relationship between the organization and Jimmy Butler has turned sour.

As always, the NBA trade deadline provides ample storylines, with marquee names potentially on the move, contenders looking to bolster their respective rosters for a playoff push and some organizations fully committing to a second-half tank. The major storylines currently captivating the NBA community are:

The Miami Heat are still "patiently waiting for the best possible offer" for disgruntled star Jimmy Butler, according to Barry Jackson of the Miami