The New York Knicks are one the three handpicked destinations Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jimmy Butler mentioned in his meeting with coach Tom Thibodeau and general manager Scott Layden on Tuesday. While they are a big market that has proved to garner some attention from soon-to-be free agents, it's unlikely they will make a move for Butler before the start of training camp, as they are still refusing to give up draft picks, according to ESPN' Ian Begley.
The Knicks are hoping Butler's interest remains the same in free agency, a time in which they'll be willing to sign him without giving up any possibility of growth — an area president Steve Mills and general manager Scott Perry have been in full agreement since they took over the front office.
The Timberwolves will surely want some future picks as compensation in any trade for Butler, given the very few assets the Knicks possess that can equal an All-Star's value.
The Brooklyn Nets and the L.A. Clippers are the other two destinations that will compete for Butler's services, but the control still remains with the Timberwolves' front office, who can trade him to any team that offers the best package in return, regardless of if he's willing to sign a long-term extension with them in 2019.
Minnesota is unlikely to get equal return for Butler, especially considering that teams know they must get rid of him sooner than later in hopes to not let this affect the team chemistry heading into the season.
Follow Us
Subscribe