League insider Keith Pompey reports that the Philadelphia 76ers are prepared to make significant efforts to acquire Jimmy Butler this offseason.
The Philadelphia 76ers are leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of Jimmy Butler this offseason. According to NBA insider Keith Pompey, the organization is prepared to offer the 34-year-old Butler a maximum contract extension if they manage to secure him in a trade in the upcoming months.
“The Sixers view him as a fallback option if they are unable to sign Paul George in free agency. And, according to sources, the Sixers are prepared to give Butler a maximum-salary extension if things align and he forces a trade out of Miami,” wrote Pompey.
Paul George has been the focal point of the 76ers’ offseason plans, but recent speculation surrounding his future with the Clippers has cast doubt. With George’s situation up in the air and competition from other teams for his signature, the 76ers are hedging their bets by considering Butler as a contingency plan.
Butler, renowned for his tenacity and leadership, has been a cornerstone for the Miami Heat since his arrival in 2019. However, whispers of a potential departure have surfaced following successive playoff disappointments, paving the way for a potential reunion with 76ers.
During his stint with the 76ers in the 2018-19 season, Butler showcased his prowess, emerging as a vital contributor alongside Joel Embiid. Averaging 18.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game on 46% shooting, Butler injected a new level of intensity and versatility into the team’s lineup.
While Butler may not wield the same impact as in his earlier years, the emergence of young talent like Tyrese Maxey offers the 76ers renewed hope for a deep postseason run in the NBA Eastern Conference. Despite Embiid’s past playoff struggles, the team remains determined to break through and establish themselves as contenders in the East.
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