It is still unclear what will happen for Jimmy Butler after his trade claim. The Timberwolves training camp started without him in any case. Taj Gibson and Derrick Rose, among others, commented on the situation on Friday.
Both Rose and Gibson have already played with Butler at the Chicago Bulls and both expressed understanding for their long-time team-mate. Although she was surprised by the clarity of Butler’s demand, both did not resent it.
“In the NBA, all players now have a little more freedom to do what they want,” Rose told ESPN. “And he’s just saying he doesn’t want to be here. I mean, Kawhi didn’t play last season, right?”
Both Rose and Gibson, however, pledged that they would continue to support Butler. “I wish him all the best,” Rose said. “Because you never know what someone’s going through. I was already in a position where I was simply misunderstood. I’ve experienced it all, and to be honest, I’m glad it’s not about me right now.”
Gibson looked like that. “This is my brother. I love Jimmy. We don’t talk about basketball at all. And he knows I’m always there for him, no matter what. Right or wrong, I’m always on his side.”
Butler had demanded a trade from the Wolves about two weeks ago. Recently, the Miami Heat have been favorites for a commitment, but so far no trade has resulted.