There have been many rumors of dissatisfaction among the Minnesota Timberwolves over the summer, especially superstar Jimmy Butler. A meeting between the Swingman and Head Coach Tom Thibodeau will now bring clarification.
Earlier this week, Butler, Thibodeau and Butler’s agent Bernie Lee will meet to discuss how to approach the coming season, after which Butler will be a free agent. “Whatever needs to be communicated will be communicated,” says the ESPN report.
Butler and Thibodeau have in principle a very good relationship, especially since the four-time All-Star 2011 got his first chance in the NBA with the Chicago Bulls under Thibs. Butler, however, is said not to have gotten along well with young star Karl-Anthony Towns in his first season after the trade with the Wolves. He therefore refused to extend the contract prematurely in the summer.
According to the report, front office staff from other teams believe that Butler may be available before the February trade deadline, as Minnesota cannot actually risk losing him without value. It is also assumed that he will have a number of offers as a free agent next summer.
Meanwhile, there are also other construction sites at the Wolves, especially as an extension of the contract with Towns is still in the works. Meanwhile, owner Glen Taylor is said to have already thought about making changes to the front office, which is headed by General Manager Scott Layden and Thibodeau, who not only serves as coach but also as President of Basketball Operations.
The Wolves reached the playoffs for the first time since 2004, but lost to Houston Rockets in five games.