Report: Jimmy Butler could be ‘as good as gone’ from the Chicago Bulls

According to an article by The Ringer, Jimmy Butler could be having his last season with the Chicago Bulls.

There was a  time when Jimmy Butler was known as the guy who could guard LeBron James. Butler enjoyed that coming-out party in the spring of 2013 and since then has parlayed that notoriety into becoming one of the league’s top players. But besides his haircut, Butler has not been a popular fixture in Chicago as of late.

The Bulls currently sit a game and a half outside of the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The Bulls were expected to make a push in the East this season with the addition of Dwyane Wade. But, the on-court product has been bad and chemistry has been worse. Issues with head coach Fred Hoiberg have assisted in deflating those chances, leading to instances of defiance like this.

Reports of Butler and Wade ignoring Hoiberg altogether have circulated. Butler was discussed in several rumors at the trade deadline but ultimately stayed put. According to an article by The Ringer, there is a chance that Butler’s days with the Bulls could be numbered.

"Paul George and Jimmy Butler were involved in trade rumors at the deadline, and all indications are that those conversations will resume this offseason. One front-office source told me recently that Butler is “as good as gone,” while George sounds like a player who wants out."

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If this indeed is the case, Butler may have damaged his reputation. Butler must remember he didn’t start off as a star player. Stardom comes and goes, and just how quickly he got it, he can lose it, too. If anything, Butler can prove to the Bulls he can lead by helping them finish strong for a playoff spot. If not, he may prove to the Bulls front office he is what they thought he was.