NBA Rumors: Los Angeles Clippers Target Jimmy Butler Trade; DeAndre Jordan, Paul Pierce Get New Big 3 Star

Feb 23, 2017 05:54 AM EST

The Los Angeles Clippers appear to be cutting their losses early this NBA season. Since the Golden State Warriors arguably created an unbeatable team with Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant and Draymond Green, it looks like the Western Conference teams would need to up their games exponentially. For DeAndre Jordan and his team, this could mean investing on a Jimmy Butler trade to form a stronger and more reliable Big 3.

When the Chicago Bulls signed a Derrick Rose trade to the New York Knicks, many expected Jimmy Butler to be the sole leader of the Taj Gibson team. However, the entry of veterans Dwyane Wade and Rajon Rondo reportedly spoke volumes of the front office's doubts on his leadership skills. With the frustrating losses stacking up against the Nikola Mirotic team this season, fans are anticipating a Jimmy Butler trade before the deadline.

Rumors are rife that the Los Angeles Clippers are planning to break up the teamup of Blake Griffin, DeAndre Jordan and Paul Pierce. Presumably replacing one these All-Star players is none other than Jimmy Butler. Critics believe that the entry of the Chicago Bulls star could offer a more permanent and long-term solution to the small forward issue Western Conference squad.

For his part, Jimmy Butler seems to prefer to stay with the Chicago Bulls. However, the young star also understands that execs and coaches need to make changes to achieve their goals.

"Hopefully I'm not going to get traded, but I don't know. I don't control that. Control what I can control, like going on vacation," admitted Jimmy Butler of his future.

He further shared, "Not saying I'm untradeable, but I don't think about that. If I'm not in a Bulls uniform, I'll give you a hug and say goodbye to you."

At this point, a Jimmy Butler trade remains uncertain. No comment has been given by the parties tagged in this NBA rumor. However, both the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Clippers fans are eager to see how the next days will unfold.

What do you think? Will DeAndre Jordan and his team benefit from a Jimmy Butler trade? Should the Chicago Bulls let go of their leader? Can Nikola Mirotic and the rest of the group make it to the playoffs with only Dwyane Wade and Rajon Rondo leading them?