Jimmy Butler to Play vs. Warriors After Missing Jazz Game Amid Trade Request
Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Tom Thibodeau said shooting guard Jimmy Butler will play in Friday night's game against the two-time defending NBA champion Golden State Warriors.
Alan Horton of Wolves Radio provided the update after Butler sat out Wednesday's victory over the Utah Jazz because of general soreness while seeking a trade from the organization.
The 29-year-old Houston native explained to ESPN's Rachel Nichols on Wednesday he planned to return against the Dubs and is merely protecting himself as he awaits a "resolution":
Butler is averaging 22.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 3.0 steals and 1.3 blocks across six appearances so far this season. The Wolves are 4-4, including a 1-1 mark in games he doesn't play.
His absence on Wednesday led to what will likely stand as one of the NBA's best stories at season's end as Derrick Rose flashed his old MVP form with 50 points, six assists and four rebounds to carry the Wolves to their win over the Jazz.
The Butler situation continues to hover about Minnesota like a dark cloud, though.
Last week, Malika Andrews of ESPN.com reported the Houston Rockets, Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers were among the potential trade suitors. She noted the team could "seriously revisit trade talks 10 to 15 games into the season." The Timberwolves play their 10th game Sunday.
Butler will be on the floor Friday with a chance to bolster his trade value in a nationally broadcast game against the dominant Warriors.
The Wolves are probably going to have to revisit his availability on a game-by-game basis for as long as he remains on the roster, however.
