This summer, the Miami Heat and Jimmy Butler were unable to agree on an extension. As a result, if Butler opts out of his 2025-26 player option, he could become an unrestricted free agent in the 2025 offseason.
As many know, an unrestricted free agent can choose to sign with any team. This means Butler could potentially join the Sacramento Kings. However, one might wonder why he would move from South Beach to Sacramento, given the Kings’ struggles over the past two decades.
It’s worth noting that the Kings’ reputation has changed. Under head coach Mike Brown and with the addition of Domantas Sabonis, the Kings have become a respectable team, averaging 47 wins over the last two seasons. Alongside De’Aaron Fox, Kevin Huerter, Keegan Murray, and others, they have transformed the league’s view of them.
Their newfound respect was reinforced when All-Star DeMar DeRozan opted for Sacramento over larger markets like Los Angeles and Miami.
This brings us to a recent video. On Monday, during the premiere of “Starting 5,” which features Sabonis, a clip surfaced showing the new King embracing Butler. This has sparked speculation among Kings fans.
Jimmy Butler, YOU are a Sacramento King pic.twitter.com/v43Nu0Lbkk
— 𝑹𝑼𝑵 (@RunWithFox) September 24, 2024
While it’s likely just two good friends catching up, what if it’s something more?
By signing with the Kings, DeMar DeRozan has achieved two significant outcomes. First, he has demonstrated to other veterans that joining Sacramento is a viable option. Second, he provides the Kings with a respected figure who can serve as a spokesperson to help attract other players, like Jimmy Butler, to the team.
A lot can change in a year. It’s possible that the Heat and Butler decide it’s best to continue their partnership, or Butler could be traded to another team and choose to stay there, similar to what happened with Pascal Siakam.
Who knows? But one thing is certain: if Butler does end up in Sacramento, DeRozan will play a key role in making it happen.
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