Philadelphia 76ers All-Star small forward Jimmy Butler enjoyed his time with the Sixers this season, saying it was “fun to meet and interact with the fans” of Philadelphia.

Sixers fans are hoping they'll get to interact with Butler next season, too. The swingman becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer once he declines his 2019-20 player option with Philly.

Butler says playing for Philadelphia is special because they show you love as long as you play hard.

“As long as you play hard, the city loves you – and give it your all, that's all they ask of you,” Butler said at his end-of-the-season press conference. “It's definitely been fun to meet and interact with the fans and the people that work for this organization. They've been absolutely incredible and amazing.”

The Sixers will surely have to pay max money to keep Butler in Philadelphia. The four-time All-Star is expected to be pursued by the Los Angeles Lakers, LA Clippers, Brooklyn Nets and New York Knicks once free agency starts on July 1.

Butler averaged 18.2 points with the Sixers during the regular season while shooting 46.1 percent from the field. The fans loved him, as they chanted “Jimmy Butler” throughout the playoffs when he was making big plays at home.

The Sixers fell short of their goal this season, as they lost to the Toronto Raptors in the second round of the playoffs in seven games.

Along with Butler, Tobias Harris and J.J. Redick are also set to become free agents this offseason.