Though the strength of schedule over this span hasn’t necessarily been impressive, Phoenix has been better recently, winning nine of its last 13 games. So, as the team continues its pursuit of Jimmy Butler, the Suns (24-22) are moving their way up the standings.

Jimmy Butler made his return, but the Heat still lost its third straight game to reach the 40-game mark at 20-20.

NBA writer Bennett Durando of the Denver Post has suggested that Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat is one of the names that the Denver Nuggets might want to explore as the trade deadline approaches.

Jimmy Butler walked out of the Miami Heat locker room on Friday night wearing a Michael Jordan jersey. It wasn’t a No. 23 jersey.

Jamal Murray scored 30 points, Nikola Jokic extended his NBA lead with his 17th triple-double of the season and the Denver Nuggets spoiled Jimmy Butler's return by beating the Miami Heat 133-113 on Friday night. Jokic finished with 24 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. Aaron Gordon added 16 for Denver.

Jimmy Butler could be back in the Miami Heat's starting lineup two weeks after the team announced they plan to listen to trade offers for him. Butler

Will Jimmy Butler make his Heat return on Friday against the Nuggets? Check back here for updates throughout the day

Jamal Murray scored 30 points as the Denver Nuggets spoiled Jimmy Butler’s return in a win against the Miami Heat on Friday night.

The Knicks have won five in a row including wins over teams like the Nuggets, Grizzlies, and Kings who have all been surging. New York is sitting at No. 3 in the East and is just a game back of the Celtics for the No. 2 seed. The Knicks are jelling at the right time as they continue to move forward with their season.

That’s because the Spurs — reportedly Fox’s preferred trade destination — currently have nine tradeable first-round picks that they can include in a deal to the Heat’s one tradeable first-round selection. San Antonio also has young talent such as Keldon Johnson, Devin Vassell and others who it can add to any trade package for Fox.

Tim Bontemps unveils his 24 picks for the East and West All-Star rosters, filled with new starters, wild-card intrigue and some agonizing decisions.