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MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) - For the first time this season, Fox 9 cameras got a look at Jimmy Butler on the floor at Minnesota Timberwolves practice. And that’s pretty much all we saw – Butler, dressed in dark blue shorts and compression tights and black tank, walking around off to the side of the court.
Timberwolves head coach Tom Thibodeau said Sunday that Butler is expected to play in Wednesday’s season opener in San Antonio after returning to practice last week. Timberwolves owner Glen Taylor attended Sunday’s practice and met with the disgruntled All-Star. The two came to an agreement that Butler will play with the Wolves until a trade can be made.
ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported the Timberwolves and Miami Heat were close to an agreement on a trade involving Butler last weekend, but it fell apart late in the negotiations.
Last week was tumultuous to say the least in Minnesota. The Timberwolves canceled practice Thursday, the day after Butler reportedly caused a scene at his first practice back with the team since requesting a trade three weeks ago.
According to numerous sources, the All-Star guard was reportedly tearing into teammates, coaches and even management at practice Wednesday. Although the practice was closed to media, word leaked out that Butler was emotional, combative and passionate.
The Timberwolves home opener is Friday night against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Butler told The Athletic that Minnesota fans can “go ahead, boo me. It ain’t going to change the way I play. That’s going to make me smile more. So please, come on with it."
In case you missed it, Fox 9’s Pierre Noujaim broke down what options the Timberwolves with Jimmy Butler.