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Jimmy Butler seems to want to take his talents to South Beach.
As the veteran star's clash with the Minnesota Timberwolves kicks off its second week, a report says Butler has a new favorite landing spot: the Miami Heat.
Mark Stein of the New York Times tweeted Wednesday morning that Butler and his agent "have informed wolf owners that Miami is Butler's favorite shopping destination. A spokesman for Heat recently told Sun Sentinel that he would not attack speculation, but Miami appears to be a major player in the Butler contest.
Butler shocked the NBA last week when he asked the Timberwolves – who, a year earlier, had landed a contract against the Chicago Bulls last night. Rumors of contention between Butler, coach Tom Thibodeau and young stars Karl-Anthony Town and Andrew Wiggins have apparently degenerated into a point of no return, leaving the front office with little choice but to honor his request.
Initially, Butler listed the Knicks, Nets and Clippers among his favorite destinations. Now, Miami with space available to pay for long-term Butler could be the favorite.
"He asked for an exchange and we will honor his request," said Thibodeau. "But we will not do anything bad for the Timberwolves. We will do what is good for the Timberwolves. We must prioritize that. That's what our job is. "
Minnesota has sent several of its young workers to Chicago – Kris Dunn, Zach LaVine and the draft pick that has become Lauri Markkanen – to acquire Butler. Thibodeau is now perhaps looking to replenish the closet and will not rush to make a bad deal for a player who, according to him, is among the best in the NBA.
Reports have indicated that Miami has been aggressive in the negotiations since Butler announced his desire to be traded, while he left the Heat off his initial list. They have only two selections over the next three years (both in the first round), but the Miami Herald said they would be willing to include Hassan Whiteside and Justise Winslow in discussions.
An exchange with Miami brought Butler with Dwyane Wade, with whom he was a teammate and close friend for a year in Chicago.
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