The Chicago Bulls are off to a frustrating 18-18 start to the season, and they might be looking to trade star forward Jimmy Butler before the trade deadline in February, according to Bleacher Report.
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According to the report, a strong start held off the Bulls from moving Butler early, but they're hesitaant to build around the shooting guard and could now move on from him.
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The Bulls have several big names on the roster — including Dwyane Wade and Rajon Rondo — but chemistry has been an issue for the team. The transition from Tom Thibodeau to Fred Hoiberg has been difficult, and the franchise could be looking to rebuild going into next season.
Butler is averaging 25.2 points, 6.8 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game this season, and several teams would give up a small fortune for Butler's services. The Minnesota Timberwolves might look to bring him in to play for Thibs again, and the Boston Celtics have been in the trade market for some time. Both teams made reported efforts to trade top five picks for in the offseason.
Midseason blockbusters are tough to pull off in the NBA, but Butler would have a long line of suitors if he was on the market. The Los Angeles Lakers lose their first round pick if it's outside of the Top 3, so they might try to make a move toward the playoffs if they can bring in Butler.
It's a situation worth monitoring up until the trade deadline in February. Butler agreed to a five-year contract with the Bulls before last season.
(h/t Sporting News)
