The offseason is in full swing, with a couple of trades already completed and plenty of rumors and reports swirling around the league. Most recently, it was reported that the Cleveland Cavaliers are attempting to construct a three-team trade that would land them Chicago Bulls star Jimmy Butler, but the three-time All-Star has informed Cleveland that he doesn't want to join them.
Per source, Jimmy Butler has informed Cavs that he wants to stay in Chicago rather than be traded to Cleveland.
— David Aldridge (@daldridgetnt) June 21, 2017
Jimmy Butler may still go to other teams
The Bulls are clearly aiming to rebuild by actively trying to trade Butler, but the asking price is very high.
However, the Cavaliers and Boston Celtics have shown interest. But, with Cleveland slowly falling out of the picture, the Celtics have a good chance of landing the 27-year-old.
The Celtics most recently acquired the Philadelphia 76ers' third overall selection far this year's draft and are prepared to offer that pick, perhaps future picks, and a couple of players for Butler.
The Minnesota Timberwolves have also shown interest in Butler, who could be reunited with former head coach Tom Thibodeau. The Wolves have plenty of promising young assets to offer that would challenge Boston's ability to acquire Butler.
Why Jimmy Butler may not want to go to Cleveland
Although the Cavaliers made it to the NBA Finals this past season, coasting through the Eastern Conference, Butler doesn't want to join LeBron James and company.
It's shocking that a young superstar doesn't want to join a championship caliber team, but Butler might have a good reason why.
With reports that James might leave Cleveland in 2018 to go to Los Angeles, Cleveland is becoming an unattractive market despite boasting the most talent out East. Players are beginning to believe that things are going to fall apart in Cleveland especially since general manager David Griffin parted ways.
In addition, Kyrie Irving would reportedly request a trade from the Cavaliers if James does indeed leave next summer. It's becoming disastrous in Cleveland, deflecting stars from teaming up with James and Irving.
The Bulls received news from Dwyane Wade
In other related news, Dwyane Wade will opt into his contract to remain with the Chicago Bulls, avoiding free agency this summer.
I don't think that's good for Chicago, and it may push them to trade Butler, even more, to slowly go into rebuilding mode.
Whatever the case, the Cavaliers may now have to move forward and think about acquiring Paul George instead, even though he will be a one-year rental. However, they may have to again involve a third team to help facilitate the trade, so the Cavaliers wouldn’t have to give up any of their star players.
