Key Takeaways:
– The Philadelphia 76ers have an opportunity to build a Big Three with about $60 million in salary cap space.
– Potential targets could include former 76er Jimmy Butler, currently playing for the Miami Heat.
– The Sixers only have three players under contract for next season – Joel Embiid, Paul Reed, and Jeff Dowtin.
As a new offseason emerges, the Philadelphia 76ers fan base continues to remain optimistic despite another reduced postseason run. The potential of Tyrese Maxey emerging as a superstar and Joel Embiid retaining MVP-level talent fuels excitement and anticipation. In a significant development, the overpayment for Tobias Harris, which cost a steep bill of almost $40 million in 2023-24, is finally over. This gives the Philadelphia 76ers a combined salary cap space of upwards of $60 million to spend this offseason.
The Sixers’ Increased Financial Capacity
Mo Dakhil of Bleacher Report provided insights on Philadelphia’s position as an active contender in the free agency market, with possible targets that could turn their dynamic duo into a formidable Big Three. To many, the prospect to keep a keen eye on is former 76ers superstar Jimmy Butler, now playing for the Miami Heat.
Next season will witness a dramatic change in the team composition, as only Joel Embiid, Paul Reed, and Jeff Dowtin are under contract. This creates opportunities for several fresh faces to join the roster. Considering the rising talents of Tyrese Maxey, a large portion of the funding will be invested towards him due to his restricted-free agent status.
The Prospect of a Big Three
The remaining financial flexibility is sufficient to sign another top-tier player, creating suspense on who will be the next star to shine in the City of Brotherly Love. Paul George continues to be linked with a move to the Sixers if he fails to renew his contract with the LA Clippers. Other talked-about candidates include a potential reunion with Jimmy Butler or roping in Brandon Ingram from the New Orleans Pelicans.
Reminiscing Butler’s Stint with the 76ers
Five years ago, Joel Embiid and Jimmy Butler were teammates on the 76ers roster. Before parting ways to join the Miami Heat, Butler had a noteworthy stint in Philadelphia, serving as Embiid’s co-star for 55 games. Despite signing with the Heat and taking on his renowned “Playoff Jimmy” avatar, the camaraderie between Embiid and Butler continued.
Though aged 34 and facing injury issues in recent times, Butler is known for his tough personality and abilities to close games during playoffs. He is not the type of player to worry about shot attempts or steal thunder away from Embiid and Maxey’s offensive production.
Is a Reunion Possible?
Despite his intent to retire with the Miami Heat, Butler’s contract allows him to opt for unrestricted free agency, opening up possibilities of his return to the Sixers. His current contract with the Heat, amounting to $146.4 million over three years, gives him the option to opt-out in the final year, worth $52.4 million. He could leverage this to sign a more lucrative multi-year contract, be it with Miami or another team.
This year’s offseason will indeed prove pivotal, not just for the Sixers, but also for Butler. Could he reunite with the 76ers? Time will reveal.