The Boston Celtics have seemingly been rumored to acquire Chicago Bulls guard Jimmy Butler for several years, but their price point appears set. In an article from CSN Chicago’s Vincent Goodwill, he notes that when asking Boston for the third overall pick in exchange for Butler, the Bulls were rebuffed. The Celtics have nine first-round draft picks through the 2019 season.
The Celtics have been interested in Butler for quite some time, envisioning him as the star necessary to push the team over the edge. Boston has a cavalry of assets ready to trade for talent, though appear reluctant to pull the trigger. The Celtics recently traded the top overall selection to Philadelphia to slide back to the third slot and acquired more first round picks in the process. With other teams like the Cavaliers gunning for Butler’s services, it seems odd that Boston would not jump at the chance to get him. The third pick is certainly high, but it almost certainly will not be equal to Butler’s production.
Jimmy Butler appears to be on the move, that much is known. Chicago is not mincing words when they say Butler is on the block. They are actively talking about moving the star shooting guard with Cleveland and Boston the favorites. Goodwill also notes that the Phoenix Suns are in the mix doing “due diligence”, and the Denver Nuggets have inquired as well. Regardless, whoever lands Butler are getting a lockdown defender and overall star in this league.
