Boston Celtics: Trade Targets Who’d Help Attract Kevin Durant
Jimmy Butler, Chicago Bulls
Position: Shooting Guard
Age: 26
Salary: $75,932,378, Player Option: 2019-20)
Slash Line: .454/.312/.832
Season Averages: 36.9 MPG, 20.9 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 4.8 APG, 1.6 SPG, 1.0 3PM
As previously alluded to, one of the players whom the Boston Celtics may need to acquire in order to persuade Kevin Durant to sign is Jimmy Butler. That’s not entirely surprising, as Butler has emerged as one of the best all-around players in the NBA.
It’s ideal when one considers the fact that general manager Gar Forman told K.C. Johnson of The Chicago Tribune that he’s open to trading Butler
Wow. Asked about committing to Butler, Forman said, "We have to explore all options. With that said, Jimmy has had a fantastic year."
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) April 14, 2016
If any team can acquire Butler without losing the core of its roster structure, it’s Boston.
The reality of this situation is that, even if the Celtics failed to sign Durant, landing Butler would make this offseason a win. Butler is a two-time All-Star with two All-Defensive Second Team selections and a skill set that is without a debilitating flaw.
In many ways, Butler could thrive in the same way Gordon Hayward did under Brad Stevens with the Butler Bulldogs.
In 2015-16, Butler had a 53-point game, two 40-point outings, and 36 showings with at least 20 points. He dished out 10-plus assists in six different games, had another six with 10-plus rebounds, recorded two triple-doubles, and ranked in the Top 5 amongst shooting guards in points, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks, and free throw attempts per game.
With or without Kevin Durant, landing Butler would help Danny Ainge and the Celtics significantly improve their future.
Next: The Gamble, Part I