Sixers Fans May Have to Bite the Bullet and Accept Jimmy Butler Sign-and-Trade

ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reports the Houston Rockets' top target this offseason is Jimmy Butler, and that should scare Sixers fans at first glance. But the idea may not be as bad as it sounds for Philadelphia.

Yes, Butler was incredible in the playoffs for the Sixers this year, at times carrying the team through the game by himself. He was everything Philadelphia was expecting and then some when they traded for the veteran wing from Minnesota. But a five-year, $190 million deal this offseason just isn't realistic for the team at this juncture.

Philly may have to let Butler walk this offseason, but a sign-and-trade nets them some return on the star winger. The Rockets' desperation to bring a title to Houston is well documented, and Darryl Morey could believe Butler is the missing piece for a championship team.

A deal similar to something along the lines of Eric Gordon, Nene and a couple future picks should have Elton Brand and the Sixers front office at Butler's home helping him pack his bags. Although its likely a third team will be necessary to take Clint Capela's salary, it won't be a tall task given his age, talent level and the multitude of teams will salary cap space this summer.

Gordon fits an immediate needs for the Sixers, as the lack of perimeter shooting doomed the team against Toronto in the playoffs. The lack of a jump shot from their star guard Ben Simmons makes the need for shooting that much stronger, especially one as capable as Gordon, who shoots 37.4% from 3 for his career.

Two capable rotation players, picks, and cap space to sign a star make a Butler trade an enticing option for Philly.