Jimmy Butler was in attendance for Wednesday's practice session with the Minnesota Timberwolves despite his trade request, and things got extremely heated, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. Woj reports Butler unleashed his emotions on numerous people across the organization:
All-Star Jimmy Butler participated in Minnesota's practice, a session that included him verbally challenging teammates, coaches and front office, league sources told ESPN. Butler was vociferous and emotional at times, targeting Thibodeau/Layden/Towns/Wiggins. Story soon on ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 10, 2018
At one point in a scrimmage, sources said, Butler turned to GM Scott Layden and screamed, "You (bleeping) need me. You can't win without me." Butler left teammates and coaches largely speechless. He dominated the gym in every way. Jimmy's back.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 10, 2018
Timberwolves forward had Anthony Tolliver hinted at Butler's participation in the practice, and his response looks even funnier given Woj's report:
Anthony Tolliver on Butler practicing: "He was … around. That's really all I gotta say about that."
— Jon Krawczynski (@JonKrawczynski) October 10, 2018
Butler's trade request became public about three weeks ago, and there have been reports that he has been frustrated with how the process has played out. He reportedly came close to getting traded to the Miami Heat, but the discussions felt apart. Negotiations are reportedly still ongoing, but Tom Thibodeau has been hoping this situation could be worked out so Butler can help lead the team back to the playoffs.
If Wednesday's practice is any indication, things could get real ugly if Minnesota doesn't find a trade soon. While Butler may begrudgingly join the team for the start of the regular season, his attitude could prove to be toxic in the locker room.
Butler, now 29 years of age, made 59 appearances with the Timberwolves during their 2017-18 regular-season campaign, racking up averages of 22.2 points on 47.4 percent shooting from the field (35.0 percent from beyond the arc), 5.3 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and 2.0 steals in 36.7 minutes per outing.
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