Minnesota Timberwolves: examining trade scenarios for Jimmy Butler

Trading for Jimmy Butler seems unlikely to happen for the Clippers given the fact that they can sign him outright next summer, however, they cannot be dismissed.

Perhaps the Timberwolves were underwhelmed by the trade offers they received from the Knicks and Nets. The same might also be said for the Clippers. The Clippers are still lurking around and are engaged in trade talks with the Timberwolves.

As it currently stands, the Clippers remain relevant in trade discussions with the Timberwolves because they would like to get Butler a year before he enters free agency. Making a trade with the Timberwolves would be beneficial for the Clippers for two reasons — a playoff push now and the advanced opportunity to sell Butler on their developing culture. The latter is important for the future of the franchise.

The Clippers will always have an uphill climb in popularity. They are Los Angeles’ second NBA team. Getting Butler from the Timberwolves pushes them closer to desirability while steering clear of the obscurity the team has been mired in since moving from San Diego. Butler is not LeBron James, nevertheless, he still moves the needle and puts anuses in seats. Both attributes are just as important as the stat sheet and place in the NBA standings.

Unfortunately, the Clippers are on close to equal footing with the Timberwolves. That has likely factored into their offer. If the Clippers give the Timberwolves too much in return for Jimmy Butler they come out on the losing end in every which way.

A trade which works…

The Timberwolves shipping Butler along with Tyus Jones to the Clippers for Danilo Gallinari, Milos Teodosic, and a draft pick.