Jimmy Butler set for Philadelphia 76ers debut on Wednesday
Tuesday 13 November 2018 06:42, UK
Four-time All-Star Jimmy Butler is expected to make his 76ers debut Wednesday night at Orlando after his trade to Philadelphia was officially finalised on Monday.
The Minnesota Timberwolves sent Butler and center Justin Patton to Philadelphia for forwards Robert Covington and Dario Saric, guard Jared Bayless and a 2022 second-round draft pick. The NBA approved the deal on Monday.
Butler was not expected to be with the 76ers for Monday night's game in Miami.
He will be introduced with his new team at a news conference Tuesday.
Philadelphia general manager Elton Brand said pairing Butler with All-Star forward Joel Embiid and 2017-18 Rookie of the Year Ben Simmons puts the Sixers in contention for an NBA title.
"We have a championship window that's centred around the continued progression of our talented young core, as well as our ability to add elite players who elevate our program," Brand said in a statement.
"In Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons, we have two of the NBA's top 20 players. Now, we've added a third top-20 player in Jimmy Butler, who is one of the NBA's very best on both ends of the floor. This move further strengthens our pursuit of a championship and gives us a formidable combination to take on the league's top teams."
Butler has appeared in 10 games this season, averaging 21.3 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 2.4 steals.
"His scoring prowess, tenacity on defense and overall competitiveness are perfect fits alongside Joel, Ben and our talented roster. By acquiring Jimmy, Elton Brand did a terrific job in further positioning our team for long-term success," 76ers managing partner Josh Harris said in a statement.
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