Jimmy Butler is still technically an employee of the Minnesota Timberwolves, and Tom Thibodeau is preparing for Butler to be on the roster despite Butler's desire to be traded.
If this situation isn't resolved soon, things could turn ugly, especially given the rumors about the relationship between Butler and youngsters Karl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins. Thibodeau wants Butler to come back and play with the team, but the 29-year-old has been adamant about wanting to be traded. According to Shams Charania and Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic, Minnesota is now making preparations for Butler to be on the roster for the start of the season.
Barring a change in the dwindling trade market between now and the season opener in San Antonio on Oct. 17, the Timberwolves are making preparations to start the season with Butler on the roster, league sources said.
Thibodeau confirmed to Michael Rand of the Star Tribune that Butler is still excused from the team, but he also discussed the fluidity of the situation.
“It’s fluid. We’re always going to do what’s best for the team. That’s the important thing for everyone to understand. If that means he’s here, then he’ll be here. If that means he’s not here, then he’s not here.”
We know that Butler still wants to move on from Minnesota, but there is nothing on the horizon to suggest that a deal is imminent. The Timberwolves don't want to give away one of the best players in the league for a lackluster return. That being said, teams know that Butler desperately wants out, so Minnesota doesn't have much leverage in this situation.
This melodrama is not a great look for Thibodeau and Minnesota. The questions and speculation will continue to swirl until there is a definitive conclusion. Butler returning to start the season with Minnesota would not feel like an ending to this story.
Follow Us
Subscribe