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[Saba Sports News] The Philadelphia 76ers are determined to acquire Jimmy Butler this summer. According to league insider Keith Pompey, the team is ready to offer the 34-year-old a max extension if they can trade for him.
“The Sixers view him as a fallback option if they are unable to sign Paul George in free agency,” wrote Pompey. “Sources say the Sixers are prepared to give Butler a maximum-salary extension if he forces a trade out of Miami.”
Paul George has been the 76ers’ top target, but with his future uncertain and multiple teams interested, Butler is their backup plan. Since joining the Heat in 2019, Butler has been the team’s heart and soul, but speculation about his future in Miami leaves room for a return to Philadelphia.
In the 2018-19 season, Butler averaged 18.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists in 55 games for the 76ers, playing a crucial role alongside Joel Embiid. While his impact might not be the same now, the emergence of Tyrese Maxey could help the 76ers make a deep playoff run.
Despite past disappointments, the team remains committed to breaking through.