In the wake of recent rumors of the Minnesota Timberwolves turning down the Houston Rockets' proposed trade, president/head coach Tom Thibodeau suggested he's not really weighing long-term vs. short-term benefits in trade packages for Jimmy Butler, according to Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic. Thibs just wants to “do what's right” for the franchise.
The Rockets offered four first-round picks along with the unwanted contracts of forward Marquese Chriss and point guard Brandon Knight to match Butler's salary, but the Wolves were rather uninterested in Houston's offer and have since reportedly re-engaged in conversations with the Miami Heat.
While the Timberwolves could benefit from future first-rounders, the Rockets are likely to be giving up a selection in the lower 20s, as they would be expected to be among the top teams in the league with a superstar trio of Chris Paul, James Harden and Butler. Furthermore, the Timberwolves are intent on moving Gorgui Dieng's contract in any negotiations for Butler, and the prospect of taking on the contracts of Knight and Chriss is largely unwanted for a team that is hoping to contend now, not later.
Thibodeau's job is also on the line with this trade, as the Timberwolves' record at the end of the season will largely determine whether he gets to keep his job(s) with the organization.
Many believe the trade offers previously made by the Miami Heat were generous enough to strike a deal, but Thibodeau's insistence to look out for the franchise's immediate interest without taking a loss has slowed talks immensely — something that has frustrated Butler and inquiring teams.
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