Philadelphia 76ers: 5 reasons to love the Jimmy Butler trade

The Philadelphia 76ers added a third star in Jimmy Butler. That should excite fans.

Robert Covington deflections and Dario Saric fist pumps will no longer highlight Philadelphia 76ers games. Now starts the era of Jimmy G. Buckets, a bona fide superstar who adds experience to the organization’s gifted core.

The Sixers gave up two major assets to get Butler, but overall, the deal was too good to pass up. Saric presents several long-term challenges due to his defensive limitations and impending contract extension. Covington, despite his brilliance, shouldn’t hold up a Jimmy Butler trade.

With three stars, the Sixers are a more well-rounded supporting cast away from competing with Boston, Toronto and the Eastern Conference elites. Boasting two top-15 players (and another top-30 player) puts them in excellent company.

There have been critics of the Butler trade, for various reasons. Covington and Saric are two fan favorites with deep ties to the Process and the city. Some are worried about Butler’s attitude and the locker room dysfunction in Minnesota.

For the most part, however, the reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. And it should be. Butler is a talented player who will elevate the Sixers to new heights.