Report: Butler previously told T-Wolves he didn't plan to stay long term
Jimmy Butler's meeting with the Minnesota Timberwolves' front office this week apparently wasn't the first time he disclosed his frustrations with the organization.
The 29-year-old turned down a four-year extension worth approximately $110 million earlier in the summer. Once it became evident he and his camp would be unable to renegotiate, Butler told team president and head coach Tom Thibodeau that he didn't envision himself remaining with the Timberwolves beyond his current deal, league sources told The Athletic's Jon Krawczynski.
Thibodeau met with Butler in Los Angeles on Tuesday, which is when the four-time All-Star reportedly requested a trade.
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Phone calls have been pouring in from executives inquiring about Butler's availability since then, but Thibodeau has reportedly shut them all down, as he intends to keep the player.
Related - NBA podcast: What's the deal with Jimmy Butler and the Timberwolves?
Butler is locked in for $19.8 million this season, with a player option worth the same amount in 2019-20. He's set to earn a great deal more under the league's rising salary cap should he opt out.
Butler averaged 22.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and two steals on 47.4 percent shooting across 59 appearances for the 47-win Timberwolves in 2017-18.