The Minnesota Timberwolves need to upgrade their roster but face hefty restrictions for being over the second tax apron. It could force them to make a bold move before Feb. 6 or stand pat. Minnesota already traded Karl-Anthony Towns to the Knicks and may believe in this group building continuity to become title contenders.
The biggest name on the trade market is Jimmy Butler. The six-time All-Star was traded to Minnesota in 2017 for Zach LaVine and Lauri Markkanen. He spent just over one season with the Wolves before demanding a trade. Butler was sent to Philly and subsequently led the Heat to two NBA Finals. He has been unable to work out an extension, which puts Butler’s future in doubt.
Jimmy Buckets had an unforgettable end to his tenure in Minnesota, and the Heat may face a similar outcome if the superstar reaches his breaking point.
Timberwolves fans know how Jimmy Butler trade saga likely ends
Butler’s practice tirade is a legendary NBA moment. It is easy to forget he helped the Wolves snap a 13-year playoff drought in 2018, but the franchise was not good enough. Jimmy Buckets is a winner and was not staying in Minnesota, so he forced his way out in a rare November trade.
The Heat are in an eerily similar situation. They were just bounced in the first round of the playoffs and sit firmly in the Play-In Tournament race. Miami is not a serious title contender, and Butler is approaching free agency. He has tried to sign a new deal with the Heat, but there has been zero traction.
If Jimmy Butler believes the franchise is not good enough to make a deep run, he could demand a trade to a contender. Fans may forget, the 76ers lost to the Raptors on a Kawhi Leonard game-winner in 2019 before Toronto went on to win the championship. Butler can change fortunes and may decide it is time to move on.
The 35-year-old wants another max contract, but the NBA’s new apron rules are making teams more hesitant to spend than ever. A franchise will pay the six-time All-Star, but it may not be the one Butler wants. He will likely be moved before the trade deadline and may force his way out just like he did in Minnesota.
The Minnesota Timberwolves will not be bidding for Jimmy Butler. His practice tirade ended his time with the franchise and created a legendary moment. Anthony Edwards does not come to Minnesota if Butler stays. It was not all bad, but fans would certainly love to forget. Something similar happening in Miami would be the talk of the league, so keep an eye on the proceedings.