Chicago Bulls: Trading Jimmy Butler is a blessing in disguise

The Chicago Bulls front office impacted the franchise’s future for years to come as a result of trading all-star guard Jimmy Butler to the Minnesota Timberwolves. It was a brilliant move for a reason that might surprise you.

You may be one of many who thinks that the Chicago Bulls were ripped off in their trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves. They sent Jimmy Butler, along with the 16th draft selection, to Minnesota for guards Zach LaVine, Kris Dunn, and the 7th overall pick. What looks good or bad on paper doesn’t always tell the whole story when it comes to a player’s impact on his team.

While there are many reasons for Bulls fans to feel sad that Butler is the latest fan-favorite to be sent off packing, there is reason for fans to feel excited about this shocking trade.

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Besides the fact that the Bulls organization appears finally committed to rebuilding their roster with young talent, as opposed to competing for another eight-seed in a weak Eastern Conference, getting rid of Butler proves to be a true blessing in disguise, for a particular reason you might not have suspected.

Since becoming the leader of the Bulls, Butler was not shy to voice his frustration when things went south. Calling out both his younger teammates and head coach at times is never a recipe for sustainable success. Yet, instead of shouldering the blame as true leaders do when things aren’t going smoothly on the court, Butler would rather place blame on others.

As talented and driven Jimmy Butler was, his ego ultimately got the best of him as he succeeded. Sure, he cared about winning games as a Bull, but Butler took the wrong approach towards caring.

The ball had to be in Butler’s hands in order for the Bulls to win close games. That’s the mentality that stars on the court should have. But, at the same time, because of this “I have to do it all” mentality, Butler failed to recognize the importance of trusting his younger teammates to make big plays when counted upon.

A true leader strives to go out of his way to make his teammates play better on the court. It’s why LeBron James, year after year, finds a way to elevate his entire supporting cast’s confidence. In turn, winning plenty of competitive games over the course of a season happens.

Being able to lift another player’s spirit goes a long way towards achieving sustainable success. While Butler wasn’t able to recognize that in Chicago, he may in Minnesota, where they also feature a young team.

This trade was a blessing in disguise because it will allow other Bulls players the opportunity to grow as leaders. Players now don’t have to feel intimidated to take shots in crunch time. Now they can relish these moments. Whether those shots go in or not, they gain much-needed experience.

Who knows, now that one all-star leaves, maybe another one rises in his place. It happened with Butler. He can attest to that, given his memorable time as a Chicago Bull.

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