According to reports, Minnesota Timberwolves’ swingman Jimmy Butler requested to be traded Wednesday. In addition, has given the Wolves a list of one-to-three teams that he’s open to signing an extension with in anticipation of trade.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Clippers and New York Knicks are Butler’s preferred trade destinations.
Butler, 29, was traded by the Chicago Bulls to Minnesota last year in exchange for Zach LaVine, Kris Dunn and the rights to Lauri Markkanen. Last season, Butler averaged 22 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for the Timberwolves and led them to the playoffs for the first time since 2004.
The Wolves could offer Jimmy Butler a five-year, $189 million max deal. However, should he go to another team and opt in, he could receive four years and $140.6 million. Butler reportedly turned down a four-year extension worth $100 million in July.
Butler along Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, Klay Thompson and Kyrie Irving are among players that could be available in next year’s star studded free agent class.
Minnesota’s training camp begins Tuesday and The 2018-2019 season starts in less than a month. In addition, there is no timetable as to when the Timberwolves will grant Butler’s wish of a trade.
The Wolves begin their regular season against the San Antonio Spurs on Oct. 17.
Guess we won’t get the Minnesota “Timberbulls” after all.
