A day after Charles Barkley said the Phoenix Suns “stink,” ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith called them “soft” based on what the “NBA people” are saying as he put it. A team with Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal that went into the season with championship aspirations shouldn’t have a losing record and be 12 th in the West even with a number of injuries.

Stephen A. Smith explains how the disconnect between Jimmy Butler and the Heat could impact Miami's ability to attract star players moving forward.

Stephen A. Smith is never afraid of stating his opinion, no matter who it upsets. Right now he is very opinionated about his view of the Phoenix Suns. Speaking on “First Take,” via Legion Hoops, Smith said the Suns are “soft” and that is the main reason why they are fighting to trade for Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat.

The ongoing Butler-Heat saga sparked a lively discussion among the studio show’s analysts/former NBA players Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith and Shaquille O’Neal in the early hours of Wednesday morning after Tuesday night’s games.

Jimmy Butler is apparently open to getting traded anywhere, so we looked at all 29 teams and wondered if they should trade for him.

Marc Stein recently highlighted the Suns’ strong desire to acquire Jimmy Butler, citing the interest of team owner Mat Ishbia.

Stephen A. Smith explains why he is baffled by Jimmy Butler's usage rate with the Miami Heat.

Shaquille O'Neal, Charles Barkley, and Kenny Smith debate the Jimmy Butler situation in Miami after 'no joy' press conference

Suns guard Devin Booker was irate after an upset loss to the Hornets, only 24 hours after winning in Philadelphia.

Our NBA insiders break down this week's Power Rankings, including obvious -- and not so obvious -- trade deadline moves for all 30 teams.

As the Jimmy Butler drama continues in Miami, different people are pointing the blame at the different characters in the story. However, ESPN's Stephen A. Smith refused to put the sole blame on either Butler or Heat president Pat Riley because both have their share of flaws in their fallout.