76ers-Warriors trade pitch sends $110 million six-time All-Star back to Philadelphia

“Butler is recovering from a torn ACL. He's also 36 years old and a non-spacer on the wing, which presents its share of challenges. Still, he was effective last season before the injury and, more importantly, his contract expires after the 2026-27 campaign.”

“So the Sixers would effectively be paying the price of a first-round pick (plus the psychological tax of an Embiid trade in the fandom) to clear $50 million-plus from the books in a year.”

Butler joined the 76ers midway through the 2018-19 season via a blockbuster trade from the Minnesota Timberwolves to Philadelphia. The 6-foot-6 mid-range extraordinaire and on-ball defensive menace averaged 18.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game in 55 regular-season contests with the 76ers.

After losing a thrilling seven-game Eastern Conference Semifinals to the Toronto Raptors, the 76ers were forced to decide whether to retain Butler or Tobias Harris. Philadelphia ultimately chose to keep Harris in the fold and cut ties with Butler via a sign-and-trade to the Miami Heat.

Fast forward to 2026, and Butler could be on the move again following a 2025-26 campaign that saw him suffer a season-ending ACL injury in January. The 76ers wouldn't become instant title contenders by reuniting with Butler, but he’s undoubtedly a quality player who would be a solid return in a Joel-Embiid-centered trade.

More NBA news:

• Lakers urged to cut ties with struggling $18 million guard who reportedly requested trade
• Warriors predicted to make NBA-altering sign-and-trade for $101 million Lakers 22-time All-Star
• Lakers-Wizards trade pitch sends $186 million 10-time All-Star, NBA champion back to Los Angeles