Celtics GM: 'Minnesota gave up a lot' for Jimmy Butler

As it turns out, there's someone who actually thinks the Minnesota Timberwolves didn't absolutely fleece the Chicago Bulls in the Jimmy Butler trade.

In return for their best player and one of the premier two-way talents in the NBA (plus this year's No. 16 pick), the Bulls received Zach LaVine, Kris Dunn, and the 2017 seventh overall pick.

Before pulling the trigger, though, Chicago was also rumored to be in talks with the Boston Celtics. It was reported that a deal with Boston fell through because the C's were unwilling to relinquish either the No. 3 pick in last Thursday's draft or their 2018 first-rounder (via the Brooklyn Nets).

Celtics general manager Danny Ainge shared his thoughts on the matter afterward.

"(We) weren't really (close)," he said Friday on 98.5 The Sports Hub, as quoted by host Adam Kaufman.

"I think Minnesota gave up a lot. Good trade for both."

Related - Trade grades: Bulls get pennies on the dollar for Butler

That runs counter to what most people believe, as the T-Wolves got a bona fide star entering his prime in exchange for two prospects and young player coming off an ACL injury. In fact, the swap was so lopsided that the Bulls rejected it in "NBA 2K."

(Photo courtesy: Reddit/rickydreamboat)

Butler averaged 23.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, 5.5 dimes, and 1.9 steals (all career highs) over 76 games last season. There are two guaranteed years and $38.5 million left on his deal.