Jimmy Butler remains with the Minnesota Timberwolves although an eventual departure is still expected. With the Miami Heat out of the picture (for now), a new team in the Houston Rockets has expressed interest in the NBA swingman.
For those who have been following the Jimmy Butler drama, the deal between the T-Wolves and the Heat fell apart with the former reportedly tweaking the original deal and asking too much. The Rockets have entered the fray, allegedly dangling four first-round picks, ESPN said.
As of this writing, no player names have been mentioned to be part of the deal. Brandon Knight and Marquese Chriss are potential players who could beef up the package. It could pop up next Wednesday when the two players hit the two-month anniversary since both were acquired from the Phoenix Suns for Ryan Anderson and De'Anthony Melton.
Should this materialize, it means the Rockets are taking a chance since Butler made it clear that he intends to opt out of his deal in the summer and explore the market. That is unless Houston is able to find a way to re-sign him to a long-term contract. That is possible but entirely depends on how far the team goes this season.
Right now, adding Butler makes little sense for the Rockets. They already have James Harden, Chris Paul and Carmelo Anthony who want the ball in their hands most of the time. Butler also wants the same unless he tones down his demand for touches and goes with the flow of head coach Mike D'Antoni.
It will be an entirely different ballgame for Butler and retaining him would be bleak - especially if the Rockets are unable to fly high. The first thing they need to do is survive a tough Western Conference where the defending champion Golden State Warriors remains the favorite.
The NY Post points out that adding Butler could be insurance for Houston. Everyone knows how the Rockets almost made it all the way before Paul fell to injury. Should an injury to a key player occur again, Butler could easily fill the slack.
But will Butler agree to diminished playing time and step up only when needed? Although he could boost the Rockets' chances, the fact is that doesn't seem to be the type who would stay in the bench and be patient. He wants to be on the floor and with other stars in the roster, the only way for him to play longer is to show he is above the others - something the does not have to worry about in Minnesota.
If the 29-year-old's target is to help a team win the title, it would be a good fit. Unfortunately, the decision will depend on team owner Glen Taylor and coach Tom Thibodeau. This deal should become more interesting once the complete trade proposal is sent.
