Chicago Bulls trade rumors 2016: strong team chemistry making Bulls keep Jimmy Butler off the market?
The harmonious relationship the Chicago Bulls established early this 2016-17 NBA season could be reason enough for All-Star guard Jimmy Butler to leave the rumor mill.
During the off-season, Butler was surprisingly a hot topic in trade talks. There were even speculations that Chicago was near to dealing him to the Boston Celtics, but nothing happened. Instead, it was Derrick Rose who left and was sent to the New York Knicks.
Later, the Bulls signed Dwyane Wade and Rajon Rondo, although their addition failed to stop Butler's inclusion in rumors. There are those who even believed that their arrival in the Windy City improved the chances of the 27-year-old being dealt.
But that may no longer be the case now as Butler continues to thrive for Chicago and Wade is approving it.
"(Butler) is leading us," Wade said, according to the Chicago Tribune's report.
Wade continued: "He's doing what me and (Rajon) Rondo came here for him to do. That's to really turn into a premier, premier player in this league — above just an All-Star. He's defending the other team's best guys, he's rebounding, he's passing, he's scoring and he's being aggressive. He's good."
When Wade announced that he was coming home to join the Bulls, one of the biggest concerns was the possible chemistry issues since he and Butler are stars, although as of the moment, they are working well together with the entire team.
The Bulls are currently at 7-4 to hold the fifth spot in the Eastern Conference standings. There were some setbacks this season including a three-game losing streak but they have great promise.
Despite the overwhelming number of trade proposals and suggestions, it is expected that Butler is staying put in Chicago. He and Wade may be considered untouchables for the Bulls and are the nucleus of the championship contending unit they are aiming to build.