1. Wherever Kawhi Leonard goes (maybe the Los Angeles Clippers?)
This last slide builds the Jimmy Butler free agency pursuit around wherever the 2019 NBA Finals MVP with the Toronto Raptors, superstar forward Kawhi Leonard, lands in free agency. If that comes with the Raptors, then this slide also comes with an asterisk. It would be difficult for the Raptors to maneuver enough cap room to bringing Butler in.
However, if Kawhi lands with a team like the Clippers or New York Knicks, then it would be very wise for Butler to follow suit. The Knicks and the Clippers both have the cap room to land Butler, and he could become an immediate NBA Title contender in either spot if those conclusions wind up becoming reality.
The Clippers are exploring the feasibility of signing both Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler in free agency, @NYTSports has learned
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) June 30, 2019
On June 29, Marc Stein of the New York Times also reported that Butler and Leonard could be exploring the idea of linking up in free agency this summer. That would immediately become a top wing pairing in the NBA, and could post a big challenge for the remainder of the teams that are leaping into title contention in the next two years.
With the appearance that Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving are set to land with the Brooklyn Nets, Kawhi and Butler would be a formidable duo that could also challenge the Lakers in the West if he is to land in either spot. Kawhi is one of the hottest names in the NBA after winning a title in Toronto, and Butler would be a great pairing with him.