Chicago Bulls: Re-signing Jimmy Butler could prove difficult

For the Chicago Bulls, the shooting guard position has been a revolving door through which the likes of Kyle Korver, Keith Bogans and Jimmy Butler. With Butler, it finally seems like the Bulls have found a long-term answer with whom to flank Derrick Rose with.

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However, the fourth-year guard becomes a restricted free agent next season unless the Bulls can sign him to an extension by Oct. 31.

During the team’s media day Monday, Butler sounded optimistic about a new contract. From CSN Chicago’s Mark Schanowski:

"“I think (the contract talks) are really good right now, moving in the right direction,” Butler said. “But like I said, that’s between them. I’ve just got to be with my teammates, and whatever I do between those two baskets will handle itself.”"

However, with so many swingmen signing lucrative contracts this offseason, Butler isn’t likely to settle. Schanowski reports he could be seeking a deal in the range of Lance Stephenson ($9 million a year) or Avery Bradley ($8 million a year).

"You can bet Butler and his agent, Happy Walters, will use the Bradley contract in their argument that Butler is worth at least $10 million per season. Butler is much more durable than Bradley, and is also a better defender and a comparable scorer."

If the Bulls let him become a restricted free agent, teams could be willing to up the offer. We saw Chandler Parsons, though a better overall player, sign a deal worth nearly $16 million a year as a restricted free agent this summer. With a huge TV deal nearing, teams are more willing to spend and perimeter guys who can play defense are a premium.

With Joakim Noah due for a deal in 2016, the Bulls could be hesitant to re-sign Butler for big money. If they do, they will likely go into the luxury tax–something they have avoided like the plague the last few years. The question is: Is Butler worth it?

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