A Western Conference executive isn't surprised that Jimmy Butler is already having issues with the Philadelphia 76ers.
On Friday, a report surfaced claiming that Butler challenged Sixers head coach Brett Brown about his role on offense. Philly has been playing really good basketball since acquiring Butler from the Minnesota Timberwolves, but it appears there are some things to address behind the scenes.
Via Ken Berger of Bleacher Report:
Butler's reputation—”He's a young-player killer,” the Western Conference exec told B/R—preceded him.
Brett Brown is pretty good with personnel, pretty good with managing that stuff. But with Jimmy, don't forget that dealing with people is not something he does well.
When the Sixers traded for Jimmy Butler, there were some around the league who were worried his attitude would have a negative impact on Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons. Embiid has already said he's not thrilled about shooting more 3-pointers now that Butler is on the squad. The All-Star big man did say he has no problems with Butler.
Butler, a four-time All-Star, has appeared in 21 games with Philly and is averaging 18.0 points, 4.7 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game while shooting 46.2 percent from the field, 38.8 percent from beyond the arc and 88.2 percent from the free-throw line.
Jimmy Butler had documented issues with teammates in Chicago and Minnesota. The Sixers have to hope that it doesn't turn ugly with Butler in The City of Brotherly Love.
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