Report: ESPN's Marc Stein reporting Cavs seek trade for Jimmy Butler

It seems the "you're not gonna believe this but..." factor of the offseason sparked by the Boston Celtics trading away the top pick of the 2017 NBA Draft has set a fire around the league, with rumors swirling about the future of Paul George, and now the Cleveland Cavaliers reportedly exploring the viability of trading for Chicago Bulls wing man Jimmy Butler.


There are few details available, but it does seem to be a legitimate exploration on the part of the Cavs, who need to find a way to maximize the remaining time LeBron James is under contract with the team. James, who can opt- out after next season, may just as soon decamp to another team if the club is unable to surround him with enough talent to challenge the historically dominant Golden State Warriors.


Initial reactions to George effectively tanking his trade value had many guessing the Cavs might seek to sign him even though he will also be a free agent after next season, but a Butler trade would give the team a solid asset that would last beyond the 2017-18 season, making it a more desirable trade target as such. However, the Cavs are far from the only team with an eye on Jimmy Buckets - early reports suggest the Minnesota Timberwolves, Phoenix Suns, and of course the Celts are waiting to pounce with counteroffers.

Stay tuned for updates on...well, at this point, just stay tuned.

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