Philadelphia 76ers: Notes from the Jimmy Butler press conference

Jimmy Butler is officially a member of the Philadelphia 76ers.

The Philadelphia 76ers held a press conference Tuesday morning to introduce Jimmy Butler and Justin Patton.  Both players will soon travel to Orlando to join the team for Wednesday’s game against the Magic.

Elton Brand and Joshua Harris joined the players during the conference, with Butler touching on several different topics. Patton briefly spoke about his unique journey and injury rehab, but naturally, most questions were directed to Butler and the GM.

You can watch the full press conference below.

With Butler now officially a member of the Philadelphia 76ers organization, here are some notes from his first meeting with the press.

His thoughts on Philly

"“I know [Philadelphia] thrives and love guys who just compete, work hard and want to win… I think I’m that guy who just wants to compete and win at a very high level.”"

Butler voiced his appreciation for the fanbase being a blue collar, passionate group. He’s someone who grinds and works hard on both ends, something fans should come to appreciate. As Brett Brown has said, he fits the spirit of Philadelphia.

The Fultz situation

Butler was asked a couple questions about Markelle Fultz. With concerns brewing about Butler’s potential attitude toward Fultz, the veteran quickly doused those flames. He thinks Fultz’s issues are “mental” and said the 20-year-old is known to be a hard worker. As long as Fultz works hard, he has Butler’s respect.

Ben, JoJo and the team

Butler spoke highly of Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons, noting how hard the two play. Butler’s appreciation for hard work and determination was an overarching theme throughout the press conference. He also gave JoJo’s social media presence a shoutout.

Butler also discussed the on-court fit, saying he’s capable of adjusting to the Sixers’ motion offense — a very different style compared to Thibs’ scheme in Minnesota. He also talked about the defensive potential next to Embiid and Simmons, noting their long arms and strength. He appreciates the Sixers’ switch-heavy scheme.

His long-term desires

Butler emphatically denied financial security as the reason for his falling out in Minnesota. Instead, he talked about the importance of having good people around the organization and being treated well, which aligns with statements he made to Rachel Nichols before the season.

Here’s what Butler told Nichols and ESPN in his first interview after the trade request went public.

"“It’s about saying we need you. We want you here. We can’t do this without you. And that was the disconnect all along. You’re saying one thing and you’re saying it, and you’re saying it. I mean I’ve learned enough times in life that saying something is completely different than acting upon it.”"

Conclusion…

It’s clear that Butler wants three things: hard-working teammates, an appreciative organization and a championship. The Sixers now have three stars and some high-level complements, giving them a legitimate shot at the Eastern Conference title. Butler understands that.

The 29-year-old will make his Sixers debut tomorrow night. It’s a new era in Philadelphia.