Jimmy makes the All-NBA Third Team
Congrats, Jimbo! On Thursday afternoon, Jimmy Butler secured his first ever All-NBA selection, being named as one of the two forwards on the Third team alongside Golden State’s Draymond Green. He received 19 All-NBA 2nd team and 45 All-NBA 3rd team media votes en route to a total of 102 media “points”. He accrued significantly more than his closest competitors for the accolade, Paul George (40 points) and Gordon Hayward (27 points).
While this is a nice and shiny trophy to go on Jimmy’s ever-growing shelf, the fruits of his hard work could have significant financial consequences (and benefits) for the Bulls as well. Should Jimmy make another All-NBA team next season, he’ll have been named to an All-NBA in at least two of the the three seasons prior to his 2019 free agency. Barring a trade, this particular set of circumstances will make Jimmy eligible for a “designated player” max extension that would net him $200 million+ over five years, significantly more than the standard max contract. While this deal would be more out of Jerry Reinsdorf’s checkbook, no other team would be able to offer Butler a contract even close to as lucrative, aiding the Bulls’ chances to retain the 3 time All-Star.
For now, let’s not worry about the financial logistics and instead take this opportunity to recognize Jimmy as the top tier player that he is and the best thing in the Bulls organization. You’re the best, Jimmy. Keep doing your thing.
