Jimmy Butler is set to be a part of a blockbuster free-agent period this summer, and the Dallas Mavericks have been linked to the Philadelphia 76ers star, who hails from Texas. However, Mike Fisher of 247Sports says the Mavs will actually not be making Butler a priority this summer.
The reason? Luka Doncic:
But the Mavs' view on Butler (assuming he declines his 2019-20 player option, something he is expected to do) is that he would not pair well with Doncic, that he wouldn't share well, that he wouldn't “play nice with others” here … all of which would, in their eyes, stunt the growth of the young franchise centerpiece.
Butler seemed to mesh well with the Sixers and their young stars by the end of this season, but he infamously clashed with Karl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins with the Minnesota Timberwolves. There was also some drama involving Butler with the Chicago Bulls.
The Mavs apparently would prefer to pass on any potential drama with their franchise cornerstone in Doncic, despite Butler's talent and ties to Texas. Instead, Dallas reportedly has eyes for Charlotte Hornets point guard Kemba Walker, though Walker recently said the Hornets are his “first priority” in free agency.
As for Butler, he'll have his options this summer no matter what. There's some belief the Sixers are willing to offer the max contract he's looking for, and it would be no surprise if he stays if that's on the table.
Butler averaged 18.2 points, 5.3 rebounds and 4.0 assists in 55 games for Philly after his trade from Minnesota.
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