Golden State Warriors’ Klay Thompson knows Jimmy Butler, the Wolves shooting guard on the trading block, can elevate any team to championship contention.
Jimmy Butler has been on the block for a few weeks now, yet no solid rumors have really mounted. It’s truly an odd scenario for fans to witness; however, according to Klay Thompson, teams should be offering the maximum for Butler.
Thompson believes Butler can help almost any team reach championship contention. While not entirely true, if he’s added to an already developed team like Miami, he’d certainly elevate them to a true contender in the East.
Here’s the exact quote from Thompson via ESPN’s Nick Friedell.
"“I’m just curious to see where he goes because he’s such a great player,” Thompson said, via ESPN’s Nick Friedell. “He can really elevate a team to championship contention. And it’s unfortunate it didn’t work out in Minnesota but Jimmy’s one of the best players in this league so — I know some team’s going to be lucky to get him.”"
The team will truly only be ‘lucky’ if said team is able to retain him this offseason. Butler might be traded to a team out of left field, but if he is, would he stay with them once he’s there is the real question.
He’s made it known that he wants to play for either the Clippers or the Heat with a few other potential teams also in his list of destinations. However, teams like Cleveland and Philadelphia have also discussed the requirements for a trade involving the four-time All-Star.
Butler and Thompson both played together in the 2016 Olympics, helping Team USA win the gold medal. They are easily two of the best two-way shooting guards in the league and each been nominated to numerous All-Star appearances for their respective conference.
Just like Klay, Butler has averaged 20+ points per game for the last four consecutive seasons. Unlike Klay, Butler is more of a dynamic playmaker and less of a one-dimensional three-point threat.
Butler is a unique player that, yes, would take any team to the next level, but the risks of trading imperative assets for a one-year rental is a huge turnoff for some teams. This situation will certainly be interesting to see play out.
Let us know below where you think Butler is headed.