Rumors reveal that the Houston Rockets may be interested in trading for Jimmy Butler of the Minnesota Timberwolves. The rumored deal could involve several first round draft picks. But a certain NBA rule prevents the Rockets from inserting more than four first-round picks into the package.
As per Bobby Marks of ESPN, a seven-year rule allows an NBA team to trade for up to four picks between 2019 to 2025 — provided that they have to alternate each year:
7-year rule allows a team to trade up to 4 picks between 2019 to 2025. The first has to alternate each year (19, 21, 23 and 25) and cannot have protection unless the pick does not rollover to the following season. Ex: Protected top 14 and doesn’t convey if HOU is in the lottery.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) October 25, 2018
To recall, prior to the start of the regular season, Wolves head coach Tom Thibodeau entered into talks with Pat Riley and the Miami Heat. But at the last moment, the deal fell off.
Now, reports reveal that the Rockets have entered the picture and are willing to arrange a package in exchange for Butler. The said deal, as per Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, involves four first-round picks:
Article Continues BelowStory posting soon: The Houston Rockets are making a renewed bid to acquire Minnesota All-Star Jimmy Butler, including four future first-round draft picks in their most recent trade offer, league sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 25, 2018
Though Butler is now playing for the Wolves, he hasn't rescinded his trade request. Butler simply entered into an agreement with Wolves owner Glen Taylor that he would suit up for the team provided that the front office continues to search for possible trade scenario:
Per NBA.com, Butler said:
“At the end of the day, he [Taylor] expects me to go out there and win some basketball games. I think that's why my team expects me to do,” Butler said. “That's what Minnesota as a fan base expects me to do. Go out there and compete and be the fun-loving basketball player that I am. That's what I'll be.”