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Jimmy Butler finally has had his wish granted. After weeks of drama with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Butler is no longer a member of the team. Earlier today, the Timberwolves pulled the trigger on a trade that sent Butler and Justin Patton to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for Markelle Fultz, Robert Covington, Dario Saric, and a 2022 second-round draft pick.
It was a move that shocked the entire NBA, but has made the city of Philadelphia incredibly excited for the future. The only problem could be that Butler will be able to test NBA free agency next offseason unless the 76ers can get him to agree to a long-term deal.
That being said, Ross from Legion Hoops detailed the mega contract that the 76ers are going to be able to offer Butler. They will be able to offer a lot more money than other potential suitors.
For those wondering, the 76ers can offer Jimmy Butler a full 5 year, $190+M contract next summer.
Others can offer him a max of 4 years, $140M.
— Prime Time Sports Talk (@TalkPrimeTime) November 10, 2018
Needless to say, being able to offer that kind of money is going to give the 76ers a decent chance to keep him.
Philadelphia is now sitting in a position where they have a legitimate “Big Three” on their roster. Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, and Butler is going to be a formidable team to face. Even with that being the case, the 76ers lost a lot of their important depth in the trade.
Fultz never developed into being the point guard of the future, while Dario Saric was a solid piece that wasn't a player who would take them over the hump. Losing Covington is a bit of a blow, with his ability to space the floor and play above average defense.
All of that being said, if the 76ers are able to sign Jimmy Butler to a long-term extension this offseason, they are going to look like major winners in this trade.
