It's just a matter of time before Jimmy Butler makes his way out of the Minnesota Timberwolves camp. By now, the coaching staff are already preparing for life without the soon-to-be former Wolves star (if the hadn't already over the past months).

However, despite the emotional baggage and unneeded drama the team will free itself from once Butler finally jumps ship, replacing him will prove to be a challenge for the Wolves front office. NBA writer Sean Highkin pointed out a very interesting statistic pertaining to Butler's impact on the team.

https://twitter.com/highkin/status/1043731774839218176

As proven by Highkin's presented stat, the Wolves are far better with Jimmy Butler on the court than without him. His absence accounts for a 12-point swing per 100 possessions, and that's not something you can easily find a replacement for.

Finding a player — or perhaps a collective effort from two or three players — who can score 12 points per ballgame is not going to be too difficult. However, it's not that simple. It isn't just about scoring 12 more points, as this also involves, among other things, preventing the opposing team from scoring.

A 12-point swing is what an All-Star caliber player can bring to the table, and this is certainly something the Wolves will miss once Butler, a four-time All-Defensive Team member, departs within the next couple of days.

Hopefully, the Wolves front office is able to maneuver themselves into an even-handed trade deal that will allow them to acquire a star that is of the same caliber of Butler.