No Knicks. .
Last night, the Minnesota Timberwolves owners, Glen Taylor put his foot down, inking Karl-Anthony Towns to a super-max extension deal. Prior to that big announcement, he threated to not sign any contracts, beyond his rookie deal, until the Jimmy Butler situation was resolved. Well, Woj of ESPN has revealed the list of teams that are reaching out for a deal with Butler.
The likes of the Brooklyn Nets, Detroit Pistons, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Clippers, Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers and Portland Trail Blazers are all the main suitors looking to land the star wing player. Surprisingly, the New York Knicks haven’t been in chat conversation, as they look to stand-pact with Kristaps Porzingis, Kevin Knox and land a draft lottery pick (see: Zion Williamson).
The Los Angeles Clippers are currently the front-runners in the race, and also still remain Jimmy’s preferred destination. Before their meeting, teams were calling in to present deals, but president of basketball operations and coach Tom Thibodeau was declining any trade sent his way.
This prompted team owner, Glen Taylor to step and say if any teams have problems with presenting a proposal to Thibs – to just call him. This could set up for a nasty work relationship down the line, as it was coach Thibodeau who traded away future first-round draft picks to land his former wing from Chicago two years ago. Losing him now for essentially role players and picks is better than allowing him to walk away after the season. Look for a deal to quickly get done in the next few days.
[Source]