The Philadelphia 76ers face a battle to retain top free agent guard Jimmy Butler, but they’re ready to do whatever is necessary to do so.
Butler will decline his player option for next season, according to Chris B. Haynes of Yahoo Sports. The Sixers, however, are “adamant about doing whatever it takes” to keep Butler in the fold.
Butler hitting the open market will prove to be a headache for the 76ers, as he figures to attract multiple max offers. The report lists the Los Angeles Lakers as one interested party. Philadelphia also must balance this with their desire to keep another key free agent in Tobias Harris.
Intentionally or not, Butler has ramped up speculation that he’s already played his last game with the Sixers. He’ll attract lots of interest, and Philadelphia might have a tough time retaining him.
