In an offseason of speculation and vague hints about the Timberwolves, Sporting News has an interesting report with considerably more substance.

In a larger piece about the Wolves' overall approach to a critical offseason, Sean Deveney writes:

"Sources familiar with the situation told Sporting News that Jimmy Butler is uncertain about playing with Andrew Wiggins — Butler had problems last season with Wiggins, his work ethic and his approach on the defensive end of the floor. (Tom) Thibodeau has had similar problems with Wiggins in the past, too, and he had some hope that bringing a tough-minded veteran like Butler into the locker room would spur Wiggins to improve. It didn't."

Now, we don't know Deveney's sources, and the idea that Butler and Wiggins aren't a perfect match is hardly shocking. But it is worth considering this offseason.

Read Michael Rand's blog at startribune.com/randball. michael.rand@startribune.com.