Forward Caron Butler has opted in to his contract and will be staying with the Sacramento Kings next season, according to Shams Charania of The Vertical. Butler will earn $1.5 million next year as a result of this decision.
This is a somewhat surprising decision. Butler was reportedly unhappy in Sacramento last year and was close to being traded. Additionally, the 36-year-old is nearing the end of his career. It would not be surprising if he preferred to join a contender in order to chase another ring.
Nevertheless, Butler has an opportunity in Sacramento to be a big part of the Kings’ future. He will be able to play significant minutes for this team. Furthermore, as the wily veteran of the squad, Butler could be huge for improving team chemistry and monitoring the egos of some divisive players.
The Kings are at a huge point in their franchise history. They have not had any prolonged success for more than a decade. Now moving into a new stadium with a new head coach and new uniforms to boot, ownership will be looking to take a huge leap forward.
Caron Butler will not move the needle much in that regard. But he can be the glue that holds everything together for a team desperate to reach the postseason once again.
