Jimmy Butler has certainly made a good account of himself and while he is still active with the Chicago Bulls in the current NBA playoffs, here's hoping he doesn't lose focus and make sure that he helps his teams cause despite all the distractions.
After rumors circulated that the Lakers are planning to offer Butler a maximum contract, another team has joined the fray – the Milwaukee Bucks.
Why Milwaukee? Having went to Marquette could be something that would draw Butler to Milwaukee, a homecoming of sorts. But the thing is, would Butler be willing to join the Bucks and be one of the cornerstones for the Jason Kidd coached squad?
It is apparent that Butler could possibly be playing for another team next season, especially if is given a max contract. The Lakers are ready to give that as well as some other teams like the San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks or even the Houston Rockets.
But the thing here is that Butler could stay with the Bulls. However, that could all depend on what Butler is looking for – money or a winning tradition.
It is apparent that he has been playing behind the shadows of resident star Derrick Rose. Butler has stepped up during the time when Rose was out of commission so it will be interesting to see how long Butler would be content with that setup.
The Bulls are expected to try and keep Butler but money considerations could hinder all that. Butler is destined to be among the future stars of the NBA and that could go slower than expected if he stays in Chicago and play behind Rose.
Would Butler be amenable to foregoing a max contract to stay with the Bulls? For a player of his caliber, it would be foolish to pass up on the idea. Then again, he could always opt to sign up for one more year and then try free agency again.
The answer to that will perhaps depend on how the Bulls fare in the playoffs. The team has a pretty good chance of making it all the way, another factor that could sway Butler's impending decision.
