On Sunday, for a second time since requesting a trade, Jimmy Butler practiced with the Timberwolves. It was, he said, just as intense an experience as his much-reported workout with the team Wednesday, sans the swear words. After it was over, after a lengthy post-practice shooting session, Butler shared his thoughts with the media.
He was both coy and informative, alternately humorous with his answers and serious.
When asked whether he'd play in Wednesday's opener in San Antonio, Butler demurred. "I don't even know if I'll be breathing tomorrow," he said. "I'm just taking it one day at a time."
But, moments later, when asked if he was in game shape, he said he was, saying he'd just ask coach Tom Thibodeau for a breather if he felt like he needed one. Sounds like a fellow getting ready to play, no?
Asked if his relationship with team management has changed, he said no. Sounds like a fellow who still wants to be traded. Asked if that was so, Butler smiled. "Maybe," he said.
A source told the Star Tribune that Butler and team owner Glen Taylor met and came to an understanding that Butler would play while Taylor pledged the team will keep searching for a deal and honor his trade request.
Assuming no trade is made, expect Butler to be in a Wolves uniform Wednesday. Asked if he expected that to happen, Thibodeau said, "Yes, yep," before saying the situation is still fluid. "We're always looking at options," he said.
While Thibodeau was mostly tight-lipped and Butler was mainly smiling, Taylor — who also owns the Star Tribune — and wife Becky were at practice, a relative rarity. The Wolves have weathered a difficult preseason filled with defensive lapses and a 1-4 record. Including Sunday, the team has three days to change the direction. Just how much Butler will be a part of that, long-term, remains, well, fluid.
