Jimmy Butler made a very wise move last offseason rejecting contract offers from the Chicago Bulls. It was not because he did not want to remain in Chicago, but because he knew having a big season could mean more money. Well Butler is certainly setting himself up for a solid pay raise as a restricted free agent this upcoming summer and he is maintaining the stance that he wants it to come from the Bulls.
According to Jeff Zillgitt of USA Today, Butler wants to re-sign with the Bulls this summer as he will likely demand a max contract. Zillgitt writes that Butler has every intention of getting his money this offseason as he continues to look like a budding super star in the league and will not hesitate to sign elsewhere in order to achieve that goal. While his first priority is trying to get that type of contract from Chicago, he will accept it from elsewhere.
Butler will be very popular if teams feel they have a fighting chance at getting the young star. According to the Chicago Tribune, several teams are getting linked to Butler this upcoming free agency, believing that the Bulls will only offer so much to the star. The two sides were hung up on negotiations for an extension before the October deadline. Chicago would not budge on their offer and Butler refused the money. As a result, teams like the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs are eyeing the shooter with a contract.
With Derrick Rose returning healthy and back to his old self, keeping Butler around is crucial. The Bulls might have to make salary cap room in order to get Butler back which might force players onto the trade block. Taj Gibson has been thought to be available. While the forward is a threat on the court, Pau Gasol and Nikola Mirotic have stolen his playing time. Chicago could get a nice deal for the forward while freeing up cap space. Kirk Hinrich could also be on the move along with Aaron Brooks or E'Twaun Moore.
The Bulls need Butler, but Butler does not necessarily need them. The small forward has cemented himself as a star in the NBA and plenty of teams will be ready to give him whatever contract he demands. Chicago will get first crack at negotiations and should simply give Butler what he wants.