The Minnesota Timberwolves are still seeking a suitor for Jimmy Butler. Despite Tom Thibodeau's stubborn defiance, the team will need to deal Butler eventually. Shams Charania of The Athletic is hearing that many believe that the Philadelphia 76ers and Miami Heat will re-join the Butler sweepstakes. He writes:
“For Timberwolves and president/coach Tom Thibodeau, accepting two players unlikely to crack his rotation and four draft picks with uncertain conditions was a non-starter, sources said. Around the NBA, there’s belief that the Heat and Philadelphia 76ers could re-emerge in the Butler discussions.”
The Sixers and the Heat are two of the teams that have remained on the periphery of the Jimmy Butler situation. It's no surprise that Miami and Philly would still be interested in working out a deal. The Heat probably came closer in earlier negotiations, but nevertheless, they were not able to reach a deal.
The Houston Rockets are still looming as well. They have shown a willingness to make aggressive deals to improve their team. Perhaps they feel that Jimmy Butler is enough to contend with the Golden State Warriors.
There is still a chance that a dark horse candidate like the Brooklyn Nets or the Los Angeles Clippers jump into the fray unexpectedly. It still feels like all possibilities are all on the table.
As Jimmy Butler continues to sit out games for “general soreness” and “precautionary rest,” a need for a deal becomes more pressing.
Follow Us
Subscribe