After missing the last two games with a cold, All-Star forward Jimmy Butler is expected to make his return for the Minnesota Timberwolves today, when they take on the Oklahoma City Thunder, according to ESPN's Nick Friedell.
“I'm all right,” Butler said after participating in Friday's shootaround. “A lot of boogers in my nose, some mucus, I'll be OK.”
Butler has averaged almost 38 minutes a game through the first three games of this season and does not expect to have a minutes restriction coming into this bar-setting clash with the Thunder.
“Have I ever been one to say I want a minute restriction? No,” said Butler. “I'm here to play, I'm here to compete, I'm here to win. Ya'll see snot rolling down my nose and my face into my mouth, it's disgusting, but it might happen a few times. But I'll just get a towel and wipe it away.”
The Timberwolves have lost both games with Butler out, getting off to an unexpected 2-3 start to the season.
Minnesota has allowed an average of 121.7 points against through the last three games, including a 130-107 loss to the Indiana Pacers, in which they shot a franchise-record 66.7 percent — an atrocity given the Wolves are under defensive guru Tom Thibodeau.
Butler's presence should help anchor this relatively new-look squad, boasting three different starters from last season. The six-year veteran has been known to be an extension of Thibodeau on the court, and should address the communication between players on the hardwood.
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