When you become an elite team, as the Chicago Bulls are, you often experience trouble keeping your roster intact.
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Sure, you might be able to keep the majority of your depth around for a couple of years, but there come a time when contracts expire and those players once thought to be bargains want to get paid. That’s exactly what the Chicago Bulls are facing with guard Jimmy Butler currently, who is up for an extension this season.
Understandably the Chicago Bulls want to keep him, but to do so they’re going to have to pony up the cash. If they don’t, well, it’s safe to say Jimmy Butler is going to have his choice of suitors as Grantland‘s Zach Lowe suggests those around the NBA are very interested in bringing Butler to their franchise.
"He missed a bundle of open shots, too, but he nailed nearly 38 percent of his 3s in 2012-13. Butler’s defense is a known commodity. If his all-around offense catches up, he’ll be coveted leaguewide."
By no stretch is Jimmy Butler a star player nor should he be paid like one. Unfortunately for the Chicago Bulls, that’s the dilemma they’re currently dealing with as there will be a team in free agency willing to overpay for Butler’s services. Is that a smart move? Maybe, but maybe not. However, it is likely to force the hand of Chicago’s front office.
Needless to say, if they’re going to keep Jimmy Butler in the Windy City, they’re going to need to commit and will need to do so soon.
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