Earlier this week, news came down the wire indicating that Minnesota Timberwolves All-Star Jimmy Butler requested a trade. While there have been reports that president and head coach Tom Thibodeau doesn't want to trade his star player, another report suggests Thibs would consider making a deal — if it's a fair one.
Via Chris Hine of the Star Tribune:
One league source pushed back at the notion that Thibodeau would flat-out refuse to trade Butler, telling the Star Tribune that Thibodeau would be willing to make a deal if he thinks the deal is fair.
Several teams around the NBA have already called Thibodeau and the Wolves to inquire about Butler, who reportedly has a list of three teams that he would like to play for, including the LA Clippers, Brooklyn Nets, and New York Knicks.
Minnesota could still be looking to keep Butler around. Most reports indicate that the Timberwolves are shutting suitors down, but it could be posturing, and owner Glen Taylor has reportedly been telling teams Minnesota is willing to talk.
Butler, who is eligible to sign a five-year contract worth around $190 million after this season, made 59 appearances with the Timberwolves during their 2017-18 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.
The Timberwolves neglected to renegotiate Butler's deal like he reportedly desired. Instead, the team offered him a four-year, $110 million extension, which he turned down. If he is indeed to be traded, there is no doubt Minnesota will be looking for a nice return.
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