Butler is a high mileage 29 (heavy minutes under Thibs) and just had some knee issues. And his game relies on athleticism more than LMA's.
I think the last year of his max deal would be something like $42M during his age 34 campaign (but that's without looking anything up).
I also hold his bullshit attitude the past two seasons/teams against him. But there's no question he has talent and plays hard. Which is why you have a rumoured 20 teams asking about him.
All-Defensive 2nd team 4 of the past 5 years.
Okay
Latest rumor?
Rockets making a push for Butler.
Here is a trade that works for both teams, though Houston comes out ahead, for sure.
Eric Gordon, JP Tucker, Brandon Knight and a #1
FOR
Jimmy Butler & Gorgui Dieng.
Minny gets rid of Dieng and his contract, which is purportedly a priority, receive a starting SG, a solid defensive sixth man wing in PJ Tucker, and a point on Knight.
Butler becomes Houston's starting SF.
Paul-Harden-Butler-Anthony-Capella
Dieng off the bench at PF and C.
Perhaps some combo of Speights or Green or Carter-Williams sweetens the pot...extra draft picks...
I suppose this is a legit offer, but Minny asking Philly for Ben Simmons would signal delusions of grandeur.
And this trade would turn Houston into a conference juggernaut, capable of nuking the likes of Minnesota for next two-three years.
Still, only way the number work are with Gordon-Tucker-Knight and taking back Dieng.
Perhaps if another team was involved, such as the Kings.
Anyway, something for all of you Trader Vics to contemplate.