All-Star forward Jimmy Butler spent less than a year with Philadelphia 76ers, but it turns out that was enough for him to leave a strong impression.
During his recent interview on ESPN’s The Jump, 76ers’ star center Joel Embiid talked about Butler’s time with the organization and how sad he was to see him snub Philly and sign with Miami Heat in the offseason. According to Embiid, the two developed a strong bond and he wishes Butler remained on the team.
“It was a big loss because me and him, we got to the point where we were really close – we’re still close. We talk a lot, that’s my guy, that’s my brother forever. I wish he was still on the team, because I feel like the relationship that I built with him could have gone a long way.” – Embiid told The Jump’s Rachel Nichols.
“When it was the fourth quarter, we knew the ball would either be in me or Jimmy’s hands. I knew I could count on him. This year it kind of changes around. Now other guys have to step up and I have to do more.” – he added.
It seems like Jimmy Butler managed to connect with Philadelphia 76ers’ young players, who embraces his leadership and grinding attitude in a short amount of time. This is the total opposite of Butler’s time with Minnesota Timberwolves, where he often clashed with Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns, who were not fans of his hard-working etiquette.
Butler averaged 19.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 2.1 steals per game last season, appearing in 10 games with Timberwolves and 55 with 76ers.
