NBA
Houston Rockets Ready to Offer Future For Jimmy Butler
Just when you think the Jimmy Butler sweepstakes were dead, the Houston Rockets add a new twist to the soap opera. The Rockets are pulling their best impression of the Brooklyn Nets of the early 2010’s. They’re offering four future first round picks to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Butler.
Houston’s Reasoning
It looks like Houston is in complete desperation mode to win now. James Harden is at the peak of his prime. Chris Paul is at the tail end of his prime, and budding big man in Clint Capela is controlling the paint. They are missing that one piece to compete with the Golden State Warriors, who they’re obsessed in taking down.
They’re also their biggest road block from getting to the NBA Finals. Butler will be that third star that the Rockets need. He can get a basket at will, but also is a defensive hound that can shutdown teams best players. Butler’s intensity and work ethic could really match up with Paul’s personality. Harden and Butler are already good friends. Chemistry is already there among those three key pieces, which is great for Houston.
Minnesota’s Decision
Minnesota would be insane to not take this offer. Even with Butler, the Timberwolves are not close to contending for a title, and there isn’t really any player equivalent to match Butler. This could be the perfect chance to add some serious young pieces or at least trade assets for future trades. Thing is owner Glen Taylor is thinking long term since he has two young stars in Karl Anthony-Towns and Andrew Wiggins for the next four years at least. Head coach and President of Basketball Operations Tom Thibodeau is still looking to win now, which isn’t completely realistic if the team is actively trying to get rid of Butler.
Both Taylor and Thibodeau have to sit down and have a discussion on what direction the team wants to go in. This decision may also lead to Thibodeau’s future with the Timberwolves. Taylor and Thibodeau have been on shaky terms for the past couple months. So a big thing like this might finally be the tipping point for it all.
Butler is averaging 24.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 3.8 steals in four games this season
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