The Kings reportedly promised they’d trade Caron Butler, the Bucks the supposed likely destination.
Half that plan has changed.
Marc Stein of ESPN:
Some trade scuttle: Sacramento remains committed to trading Caron Butler, but word is Bucks, as of now, are leaning against a deal for vet F
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) December 29, 2015
Trading for Butler made little sense for Milwaukee. It makes even less sense now. The Bucks are 12-21, and with Jason Kidd out, they could punt on the season. At minimum, they shouldn’t trade future assets for over-the-hill veterans. Plus, Kidd – Butler’s former Mavericks teammate – was likely the one pushing for Butler. If Kidd isn’t around to coach him, who wants Butler?
That question extends beyond Milwaukee.
Butler is a quality veteran to have in the locker room, but he’s 35 and has declined majorly. Some teams might give him more than the 86 minutes he’s gotten in Sacramento, but I don’t know where he’d definitely crack the rotation.
Plus, Butler has a player option for next season. I’m not sure many teams will value his leadership enough to take that cap hit next season – even at the minimum salary against a skyrocketed salary cap.