The once dead trade talks between the Miami Heat and Minnesota Timberwolves for four-time All-Star Jimmy Butler may find its way back to the forefront of conversations according to The Athletic’s Shams Charania:
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“Around the NBA, there’s belief that the Heat and Philadelphia 76ers could re-emerge in the Butler discussions.”
Butler has been a dominating headline ever since voicing his displeasure in Minnesota, and at this point, both sides may be simply stalling the inevitable. After receiving a bomb-dropping offer from Houston for the services of Butler, Minnesota once again became quiet. Many executives believed this was due to the Timberwolves front office truly wanting to complete a deal with Miami, and using Houston’s offer to leverage more from them.
Initially, a trade between Miami and Minnesota was centered around Josh Richardson and Butler. Richardson, who has had a career season to date, averaging 21.9 points and 4.4 rebounds, is younger and on a flexible contract worth $42 million over four years. The Timberwolves would be able to immediately put themselves at ease of not worrying about upcoming negotiations for next offseason by pulling the trigger.
After being outbid temporarily by Houston, Miami may show more urge should both sides decide to revisit trade talks. Minnesota may be more willing now to take an up-and-coming Richardson after his breakout start to the season. The Heat perhaps will have to include more assets, such as another significant role player along with a stash of picks, to balance out and satisfy the Timberwolves’ asking.
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