Report: Butler to represent Bulls at draft lottery

In a possible attempt to appease their best player, the Chicago Bulls have asked Jimmy Butler to represent the team on the dais at the NBA draft lottery next week, sources told the Chicago Tribune's K.C. Johnson.

At first glance, it may appear to be a trivial matter, but sending Butler to the event is likely to be viewed as a shutdown of any trade rumors swirling around the 26-year-old two-time All-Star.

Related: Bulls player reportedly unhappy with 'preferential treatment' for Butler

The Bulls' collapse to lottery team this season after seven years in the playoffs has many in Chicago expecting wholesale changes. Last month, when asked specifically about Butler, general manager Gar Forman said the franchise would have to "explore all options."

Butler was unhappy with this, according to Johnson. The Boston Celtics reportedly inquired about Butler's availability during the regular season. The Bulls are likely to part ways this summer with one or both of Pau Gasol and Joakim Noah, who will be free agents.

The team only has a 0.5 percent chance of winning the draft lottery May 17, with a 1.8 percent chance of moving into the top three selections. The last time the Bulls were in the lottery, however, they overcame odds of 1.7 percent to land the 2008 No. 1 pick, and ultimately drafted local hero Derrick Rose.