With Jim's assurance, Jake's confidence surged. Previously, he had estimated a 60% chance of landing Butler, but now, with Jim's support, that likelihood rose to 80%. Having someone on the inside was invaluable. Jim's influence within the Bulls could ease negotiations much more than dealing directly with Gar Forman. As for Jim's career, his promotion was a temporary role—helping Jake could only improve his reputation, making it easier to secure a new position after he left the Bulls.
With his game plan set, Jake returned to Sacramento on the earliest flight. To his surprise, his boss, Ranadivé, was equally invested.
"I'm giving you full authority on this," Ranadivé said during the meeting. "Everyone except Booker and Jokic is on the table if that's what it takes to bring in Butler!"
Ranadivé's urgency was less about basketball than business. Though the Kings' record was solid, their star power was low; with Cousins gone and CJ sidelined, Jokic's rise hadn't yet translated into fan votes. Butler, however, could draw immediate All-Star attention, a valuable asset for a small-market team like the Kings.
"Don't worry, boss," Jake replied confidently. "I'll get Butler here without dismantling the team."
"Good!" Ranadivé grinned. "Pull this off, and the entire uniform team's season bonuses are doubled."
On the private jet—Ranadivé's own, a luxury step up from the team's plane—Jake held a strategy meeting with his team.
"According to our earlier discussions," Peja began, "the trade will center around LaVine, with additional future assets."
"If the Bulls need Thaddeus Young, we'll offer him," Jake added, "but keep the Knicks and Wizards first-round picks off the table. Only our own picks are up for negotiation."
The team members nodded in agreement. "Understood!"
At Chicago's airport, Gar Forman had been waiting with his assistant. He saw Jake leading his team, laden with bags, and smiled as they approached.
"Showing off your sincerity, huh?" Gar remarked as they shook hands, though both were well aware that each intended to outmaneuver the other.
The meeting room was filled with both Bulls and Kings staff. As Jake took his seat, he exchanged a knowing smile with Jim, who gave him a quick wink—a little boost of camaraderie that eased Jake's nerves.
"We've already outlined our terms," Gar began. "LaVine, plus your trade exception, and three first-round picks."
The Kings held a full mid-level trade exception from a previous transaction involving Thaddeus Young. Since LaVine was still on his rookie contract, they needed this exception to bridge the salary gap in acquiring Butler.
"Three first-round picks are a non-starter," Jake replied firmly. "The best we can offer is LaVine, the trade exception, and our own 2019 first-round pick."
"Then there's nothing to discuss," Gar leaned back, arms crossed. "Your offer lacks sincerity."
Jake gave a calm laugh. "If anyone's insincere, it's you. I'd love to have Butler, but let's not forget that last year's Most Improved Player was CJ, not Butler. If I were selling CJ, I'd be embarrassed to ask for what you're asking."
Jake wasn't bluffing. In his mind, Butler hadn't yet achieved the same value he would later, after leading the team post-Rose. Rose was still around, and without the Most Improved Player award, Butler's leverage was lower.
"Fine, but don't downplay Butler," Gar replied, now dropping his previous attitude. "He's been our sole core player this season, unlike your CJ."
Jake smiled coolly. "Sole core? What about Gasol, Noah, and Gibson? That's the same lineup that backed Rose. Just because Butler replaced him doesn't make him a solo star."
Gar, slightly flustered, sat up straighter. "Alright, name your terms. But remember, Butler is still our core."