The Rockets have a big choice to make about trading for a star like De'Aaron Fox. Here are the variables they need to consider.

Jimmy Butler is suspended by the Miami Heat for the second time in three weeks, a move that adds to the possibility he has played his final game for the franchise.

The Miami Heat and Jimmy Butler still don't seem to be on the same page, even with him returning from his seven-game suspension.

Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons has rediscovered his shooting touch just in time for his homecoming Thursday in Orlando, Florida. On Tuesday night, Simons shook off one of his worst scoring stretches to lead the Blazers with 24 points during a 116-107 win at the Miami Heat.

On Friday, the Miami Heat (20-19) host the Denver Nuggets (24-16) at the Kaseya Center, and if you’re wondering how to catch the action live, you’ve come to the right place.

As one of the younger teams in the NBA, the Blazers have made strides this year, but they’re still far from ready to compete with playoff-level competition on a regular basis. Portland ranks 27th in the league in offensive rating (108.6), and nearly as poorly on the other end, sitting 26th in defensive rating (117.1).

However, the Rockets are also not willing to go overboard in negotiating Butler's signing. Houston's project is well-established, with many players showing great potential. But there is one player who gives them the needed confidence for the future: Jalen Green.

If the Heat don't move Jimmy Butler by the Feb. 6 NBA trade deadline, he'd be better off picking up his player option to facilitate a trade this offseason.

Will the Miami Heat grant Jimmy Butler's trade wish to the Phoenix Suns? NBA pundits weigh in on Suns' targets before Feb. 6 trade deadline.

O'Connor: Tyler Herro. He has completely changed the way he plays basketball. He has nearly eliminated early-clock midrange jumpers in favor of more at-rim chances, 3-pointers, and playmaking looks. With better off-hand finishing, passing vision, and perimeter scoring, he looks like a borderline All-Star.

Rankings do not always tell the whole story. Here's the inside scoop on the Trail Blazers recent progress ahead of their matchup with the Hornets.