Chicago Bulls star Jimmy Butler is once again at the center of league trade rumors, bringing up the question of what are the potential consequences of losing him?
The Chicago Bulls are expected to have a busy offseason.
Between holding the No. 16 and No. 32 draft picks, deciding whether or not to re-sign Rajon Rondo, and waiting to see if Dwyane Wade sticks around… this summer is sure to yield plenty of change.
However, it is Jimmy Butler‘s future with the team that is currently up for debate.
After being at the center of NBA trade rumors for much of the last two seasons, vice president John Paxson seemed to have put an end to the speculation when he gave an interview via ESPN1000 in early May.
"We are not looking to trade Jimmy Butler" - John Paxson on @ESPN1000
— Chris Bleck (@chrisbleck) May 4, 2017
But lo and behold, Butler’s name has once again surfaced amongst the rumor mill.
Although the deal is not official yet, there are reports that the Boston Celtics could trade the No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft to the Philadelphia 76ers in order to acquire more picks and make an offer for Jimmy Buckets.
According to David Aldridge, the deal between Boston and Philly is expected to be made official on Monday.
Trade between Philly and Boston will be finalized on Monday, per source. Sides have agreed. Sixers will get first pick and take Fultz.
— David Aldridge (@davidaldridgedc) June 18, 2017
While the Butler part of the equation could very well end up being nothing more than empty chatter, in this league, anything can happen.
So what would be the potential consequences of trading away Butler?