Rumors are circulating in the league that the Philadelphia 76ers is open to re-signing Jimmy Butler and then trade him afterward. It appears that the Houston Rockets are interested in acquiring Butler and may have contacted the Sixers to make the trade happen.
One of the many reasons cited by league insiders about Houston's interest with Butler is that the organization is looking to strengthen its roster as it makes its case as a serious contender in the Western Conference. The Western Conference, with Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson's injuries, are seen by many as weakening. This is exactly the type of scenario that Houston is waiting to be a top seed as the season progresses.
Houston is trying to entice Butler with a possible big three lineup with James Harden and Chris Paul. ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski shared that Houston is shopping deals to trade Clint Capela, P.J. Tucker, and Eric Gordon to close the deal with the Sixers.
Houston does have enough cap space to offer Butler with a four-year contract worth $140 million. However, Wojnarowski said that Houston is looking to grab a first-round pick in exchange of Capela, Tucker, and Gordon. This first-round pick will then be offered to the Sixers as a sweetener.
While these rumors are certainly interesting, it is important to note that both the Sixer and Butler have yet to respond or show any indication of interest to what the Rockets is proposing. Regardless, the Rockets can still be creative and work on other deals if they are adamant to land Butler.
The case for Houston acquiring Butler goes stronger as the organization is poised to lead the now weakened Western Conference.
Another rumor that has gotten quite a lot of attention lately is the possibility of the Los Angeles Clippers landing a deal with Kawhi Leonard and Butler. Reports have noted that Leonard is interested with teaming up with Butler. Looking at the current financials of the Clippers, they can certainly offer these two superstars max contracts.
Following his injury, Leonard has not always shown interest in playing for Los Angeles, which happens to be his home. The Los Angeles Lakers is out of the picture here, considering their recent acquisitions and trades. This leaves the Clippers are the sole Los Angeles team that can give Leonard a viable new home. Should Leonard decides to sign with the Clippers, it will come as no surprise if he asks Butler to join him.
