Jimmy Butler
Other potential suitors: Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, Brooklyn Nets, New York Knicks, Miami Heat
Current status: Signed and traded to Miami Heat
Step one on the Sixers’ #RunItBack itinerary is re-signing Jimmy Butler. He will command a five-year, $190 million contract — something the front office appears willing to offer. He proved his worth during the Sixers’ postseason run.
A dynamic isolation scorer and halfcourt playmaker, Butler gives the Sixers a much-needed threat off the bounce. While Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons are elite in different areas, neither can consistently handle and create shots in a halfcourt setting. Butler fills that void.
Butler also emerged as the Sixers’ go-to closer due to his shot-making in crunch time. He’s something the Sixers can ill-afford to lose, as it takes away the second-most valuable piece on the roster. The Sixers aren’t clear title contenders without Butler.
Philadelphia makes a great deal of sense on paper. He fits next to Embiid and Simmons, coming into his own as the playoffs progressed. He and Brett Brown appeared to find common ground when it comes to his role. It would also allow him to age gracefully next to two young stars.
- According to the AP’s Tim Reynolds, Butler is expected to tell Heat officials he wants to play in Miami next season. While it hasn’t been confirmed by ESPN or other big-name reporters, it seems increasingly likely that Butler will move on. The Heat will need to send Philadelphia valuable assets in a potential sign-and-trade. Josh Richardson is a prime target. If Butler doesn’t receive a five-year max offer before departing, however, it’s a bad look for the Sixers.
- It’s a done deal. The Sixers have signed and traded Butler to the Miami Heat for Josh Richardson, completing yet another roster overhaul.