Minnesota Timberwolves: examining trade scenarios for Jimmy Butler

The Houston Rockets attempt to acquire Butler from the Timberwolves is beginning to build steam.

The Houston Rockets are considered the one team in the Western Conference with a better than puncher’s chance to overthrow the reigning champion Golden State Warriors. The idea that the Rockets could acquire Butler from the Timberwolves has generated some buzz.

Of all the teams involved in trade discussions with the Timberwolves, the Rockets stand the most to gain. This is what makes them the favorites to land Butler.

An offer of Eric Gordon is a good starting point for both the Rockets and Timberwolves.

Gordon is entering in the third year of a four-year, $52.8 million contract. Gordon only has $27 million owed to him in his final two years. If the Timberwolves were to get him in return for Butler there is not a huge financial risk. Also, Gordon is a capable scorer and defender who can play as a starter or a reserve.

He would balance out the Timberwolves’ lineup with his combination of size and playmaking ability while cementing himself as a legitimate third option on offense. For the Rockets, if it means getting Butler back, they will deal with the Timberwolves.

What complicates matters is the lackluster draft capital that the Rockets have. Sure, the Timberwolves want at least one first-round draft pick, but the Rockets are all but assured to finish with a top-five record in the NBA. Their draft picks, the few that they have available are not enticing.

With that said, if the Timberwolves are happy with a return of Gordon, maybe Marquese Chriss and a pick, expect a trade to happen with the Rockets.