Though Jimmy Butler and Ben Simmons were not exactly close during their time as teammates, the latter could unexpectedly play a role in shaping Butler’s future destination.

On a recent episode of “The Brooklyn” podcast, Bob Windrem of Nets Daily shared that Butler’s interest in joining the Brooklyn Nets is “very, very real.” Surprisingly, Windrem pointed out that this intrigue is partly connected to Simmons, Butler’s former teammate with the Philadelphia 76ers.

“Jimmy Butler’s interest in the Brooklyn Nets is very, very real,” Windrem said, according to Sports Illustrated. “Part of it is the allure of New York, but another factor is that Ben Simmons’ agent, Bernie Lee, is pleased with how the Nets have handled Simmons.”

Butler and Simmons shared a season together in Philadelphia during the 2018-19 campaign. While Butler forged a close bond with 76ers star Joel Embiid, his relationship with Simmons was notably strained. Reports from that period suggested that Butler was frustrated with Simmons’ mindset. Following that season, Butler departed for the Miami Heat in a sign-and-trade deal, and rumors surfaced that Simmons may have contributed to Butler’s exit from the 76ers.

Now, however, the two former teammates share a common link: Bernie Lee, who represents both players. Simmons, who has been with the Nets since 2022, has dealt with ongoing injury struggles but has reportedly faced fewer issues with the Nets compared to the difficulties he encountered in Philadelphia.

While a reunion in Brooklyn between Butler and Simmons seems unlikely, given Simmons is entering the final year of his contract with the Nets and Butler has committed to playing out his final contract year with the Heat, the potential for Butler to join the Nets remains. Last month, reports surfaced of Butler’s possible interest in the team, and despite their past, Simmons may be unexpectedly influencing Butler’s thinking.