Jimmy Butler responds to Bulls off-season trade rumors
Get breaking news and SI’s biggest stories instantly. Download the new Sports Illustrated app (iOS or Android) and personalize your experience by following your favorite teams and SI writers.
Jimmy Butler responded after Chicago’s 103–100 win over Houston to a report earlier Thursday about the Bulls potentially being open to trading him this off-season.
The Vertical’s Chris Mannix reported that he has heard there is “legitimate interest in Chicago” in potentially dealing Butler this summer, with the Magic showing particular interest in the two-time All-Star.
• LAYTON: Breaking down ‘the new Rose’ in healthiest season since MVP
“I don’t plan on going anywhere. I can’t control what everybody else does,” Butler said, according to ESPN. “I know that this is the city that I love, Chicago. And I want to wear that jersey. I want to wear that name on the front, and I wear it proudly. All I got to do is continue to control what I can control. That’s to try to help this team win games.”
The trade rumors stem from reported chemistry issues between Butler and head coach Fred Hoiberg, which resulted in several inquires about Butler’s availability at the trade deadline, according to Mannix.
Butler criticized Hoiberg’s coaching style in December, telling ESPN that he feels the team needs to be “coached a lot harder at times.”
Butler signed a five-year, $92.34 million deal with the Bulls last year. He is averaging 21 points, 4.4. assists, and 5.2 rebounds this seasons.
The Bulls, who have struggled this season, improved to 38–37 and sit a game behind the Indiana Pacers for 8th in the Eastern Conference.
The SI Extra Newsletter Get the best of Sports Illustrated delivered right to your inbox
Subscribe
Butler scored 21 points, grabbed eight rebounds and added six assists against Houston.
