Despite having limited salary-cap space, the Houston Rockets are expected to “be aggressive in their pursuit” of Jimmy Butler, according to the Houston Chronicle’s Brian T. Smith.
According to many reports, the elite two-way wing is expected to opt out of his contract with the Philadelphia 76ers and become an unrestricted free agent.
The issue is how the Rockets — who are already heading into the offseason $16.2 million over the salary cap — will afford Butler. The 29-year-old forward is expected to demand a max contract wherever he signs.
In order to sign Butler and keep James Harden, there would have to be some sort of trade combination of Chris Paul, Clint Capela and Eric Gordon, or possibly P.J. Tucker.
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith said this week that Harden and Butler — who grew up in the Houston-area — have been “talking” quite a bit this offseason.
Rockets general manager Daryl Morey has made it clear though that Paul, as well as Harden, are not going anywhere. The rest of the roster is up for grabs though, and adding a third star to compliment the already strong backcourt is a priority for Morey.
Do you think the Rockets should risk it all for Butler? How would Butler fit in with Houston?
