Blew it.
It’s now just a matter of time before Jimmy Butler is back shooting hoops again — but now we’re not quite sure of when or where, after the Minnesota Timberwolves just blew up their best chance at moving the four-time All-Star out the door
He’d previously been linked to a potential deal with Miami Heat for the last few weeks, but reports suggest that a deal that was in place fell apart.
Reports: Jimmy Butler trade talks ‘fall apart’ as Timberwolves seek more from Heat
MORE: https://t.co/nq7eic99FU pic.twitter.com/9I7vQ8sHYS
— NBA TV (@NBATV) October 7, 2018
Per ESPN and the GOAT Adrian Wojnarowski, the Timberwolves had a deal ready to go before they shared Butler’s injury history with Miami. That prompted them to cancel plans altogether.
ESPN Sources: Minnesota-Miami talks escalated close to a Jimmy Butler deal over weekend – only to see trade fall apart. Minnesota shared Butler’s medical info with Miami, owners were involved and sides prepared to finalize. Minnesota pushed for more, talks fractured.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 7, 2018
Boy, did they shoot themselves in the foot.
Those talks can always start again, but Minnesota has little else, if anything, going in the marketplace. Teams had backed away because of price and belief Minny would get deal w/ Miami. Sources say owner Glen Taylor’s mandate stands to his front office: Find a deal for Butler. https://t.co/LIXQwXPKkl
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 7, 2018
Chances are Butler isn’t going anywhere other than Miami, but now the Wolves don’t hold much leverage in the situation.
Minnesota must trade him while they have the chance, because even if Jimmy’s injury history is scaring away franchises, it’s clear that Butler isn’t going to re-sign with Minnesota next offseason when he becomes a free agent.
May as well get something in return, right?