With the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers kicking off the NBA offseason with a major trade, it would seem some other teams are feeling the need to get in on the action. The Cleveland Cavaliers are apparently trying to upgrade their roster as well and give LeBron James even more help.
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The Cavaliers, per league sources, have been working today on assembling multi-team trade scenarios to try to acquire Chicago's Jimmy Butler
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) June 19, 2017
And it looks like the Suns could be a facilitator in this trade:
Suns would be possibility for 3rd team. https://t.co/9sxmioJYgO
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) June 19, 2017
The Vertical's Adrian Wojnarowski also says the Bulls are talking to the Minnesota Timberwolves as well:
Sources: Chicago’s price for Jimmy Butler remains elevated, but Minnesota has assets and interest. Sides made preliminary contact this week.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 19, 2017
RELATED: Stephen A. Smith says one lowly team turned down an offer for Jimmy Butler
There could be potential for a three-team trade between all of them that would likely give Minnesota the established star it needs while giving the Cavs a young up-and-comer and the Bulls the means to go for a rebuild with assets. However, the Cavs are going to have to give up someone big in order to nab a player like Jimmy Butler and that could mean Kyrie Irving and/or Kevin Love leaving in that trade.
The big question would be is it worth it to get rid of one or both of those big pieces to have a guy like Jimmy Butler who can get work done on both ends of the court? While Irving is one of the best finishers and scorers in the league, he leaves a lot to be desired on the defensive end. Love is solid in both regards, but not a particular standout the way the Cavs utilize his skills.
