Rumors swirl about the Philadelphia 76ers exploring a potential Jimmy Butler-Paul George trade. Is Joel Embiid behind the push to reunite with Butler?
The Philadelphia 76ers are rumored to be considering a major shakeup involving two of their biggest stars. After signing Paul George this offseason to form a trio with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, the Sixers’ big plans might already be changing.
According to Vince Goodwill of Yahoo! Sports, the team is quietly exploring the trade market, and one bold possibility is a swap between George and Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler.
“I’ve heard that Philly quietly could be a suitor for Jimmy Butler… theoretically, it would be a Jimmy for Paul George swap,” Goodwill reported. “I believe that Embiid is pushing for them to reacquire Jimmy. George was told by management we wouldn’t trade you year one of this deal.”
The latest ep of the #GoodWord is up, with @jadande talking Lakers trade targets, Jimmy Butler’s mystery team, and some Kobe stories!
— Vincent Goodwill (@VinceGoodwill) January 28, 2025
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Embiid’s Push for Jimmy Butler
It seems clear that Embiid was disappointed when the Sixers signed George instead of making a move for Butler.
The 2023 NBA MVP has always spoken highly of Butler, praising his all-around game.
“Jimmy is Jimmy,” Embiid said. “He does everything, scoring and passing the ball. … On both sides of the floor, he’s one of the best players in the NBA, probably top five, probably the best actually – the best player in the league.”
Butler and Embiid briefly played together in Philadelphia during the 2019 season, alongside Ben Simmons and Tobias Harris. That team was one of the most formidable squads in the Eastern Conference and came just short of a deep playoff run.
Since leaving the Sixers, Butler has reached the NBA Finals twice with the Miami Heat. While many wonder if he might have already won a championship had he stayed in Philly, Butler’s recent suspension issues with the Heat could open the door for his return.
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The Challenges of a Butler-George Swap
While the idea of reuniting Embiid and Butler is intriguing, there are complications. Butler’s relationship with the Heat appears to be strained after his third suspension this season, but Miami may not be eager to take on George’s massive contract. George is set to earn over $50 million per season through 2028.
For the Sixers, the move would depend on how willing they are to gamble on a Butler return. The star forward’s competitive fire and history with Embiid could reignite their title hopes, but his off-court issues with Miami might give them pause.
What’s Next for Philly?
The Sixers have high expectations after an ambitious offseason, but if things aren’t clicking with George, a bold move like reacquiring Jimmy Butler could change their trajectory. Whether this potential trade happens or not, one thing is clear—Embiid’s voice carries significant weight in Philly’s decision-making.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on the Sixers to see if they make this blockbuster deal happen. Could a Butler-George swap bring Philly one step closer to an NBA championship? Only time will tell.
Also Read: Jimmy Butler’s Instagram Trolls Heat Suspension with Iconic ’90s Reference