Now that All-Star big man Karl-Anthony Towns has signed a long-term extension with the franchise, the Minnesota Timberwolves are turning all of their focus to find a trade partner for small forward Jimmy Butler, who has requested a trade.

Timberwolves owner Glen Taylor has made it clear to president/coach Tom Thibodeau and general manager Scott Layden that Butler is on the trade block. Taylor wants the front office to strike a deal as soon as possible. Minnesota's media day is on Sept. 24.

Butler reportedly prefers to be traded to the L.A. Clippers, but wouldn't mind a move to the New York Knicks or Brooklyn Nets either. The four-time All-Star will make $20.44 million this season and has a player option for the 2019-20 season. More money is available to Butler if he plays out his contract and enters the open market in 2019. He’s seeking a five-year deal worth around $190 million.

Minnesota acquired Butler last summer from the Chicago Bulls on draft night. In 59 games last season, Butler averaged 22.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game while shooting 47.4 percent from the field and 35.0 percent from 3-point distance. The hope within the Timberwolves organization was Butler, Towns, and Andrew Wiggins would be the next lethal Big 3 in the NBA for years to come. However, the trio never clicked, as Butler had issues with Wiggins' work ethic and approach on defense, and got fed up with the nonchalant attitude of Towns.

Towns reportedly told Minnesota he can't coexist with Butler anymore and wouldn't sign a contract extension if the swingman was still on the roster. It appears Towns is going to get his wish, although it's going to be hard for the Timberwolves to trade Butler before training camp starts next week.

Rival teams could be hesitant to acquire Jimmy Butler as well. The 6-foot-7 swingman had issues in Chicago, and again last season.