Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid recently chimed in on his thoughts regarding their newly acquired star Jimmy Butler, per Tim MacMahon of ESPN.
“If it's beneficial for me and for the team, then no problem. But if it's something that I don't think is going to be good for this franchise, then that's not okay. I think everybody knows that I say whatever I want, whatever comes to my mind.”
“But I'm excited having him. I think we can build something special. I'm excited to go out there and play and have someone else help carry the load. Hopefully, we make it to the Finals and have a shot at the title.”
Joel Embiid has no relationship with Jimmy Butler but plans to text him tonight. He’s well aware of Butler’s reputation for being a confrontational leader and welcomes it as long as it’s in the best interest of the team. pic.twitter.com/tCOKv8xHtA
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) November 11, 2018
In case you have not heard, the Sixers traded key rotation pieces Dario Saric, Robert Covington, and a future second round pick for Butler and Justin Patton of the Minnesota Timberwolves.
According to MacMahon, Embiid does not have a relationship with the former Minnesota Timberwolves forward prior to the blockbuster deal. The two will have to start from scratch in building their chemistry with each other.
Reading into his comments, Embiid seems to be well aware of Butler's reputation as a strong teammate with a controversial leadership style that may rub off other teammates the wrong way. But of course, he also knows that Butler is one of the best two-way players in the league.
Philadelphia has struggled out of the gates and are currently 8-6 on the season. The Toronto Raptors and Milwaukee Bucks have made waves with their strong starts, and have separated themselves from the Sixers as East favorites. Moreover, the Boston Celtics are still highly touted as the team to beat in the East. With Butler's addition, the Sixers may have launched themselves back into the conversation.
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