Jimmy Butler’s return to Minnesota isn’t going well, with a report that he “verbally challenged” several of his teammates and coach Tom Thibodeau at practice on Wednesday.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski says that Butler was “vociferous and emotional” during the session, “targeting” Tom Thibodeau, general manager Scott Layden, and teammates Karl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins.
He reportedly “screamed” at Layden during the verbal onslaught.
At one point in a scrimmage, sources said, Butler turned to GM Scott Layden and screamed, "You (bleeping) need me. You can't win without me." Butler left teammates and coaches largely speechless. He dominated the gym in every way. Jimmy's back.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 10, 2018
All-Star Jimmy Butler participated in Minnesota's practice, a session that included him verbally challenging teammates, coaches and front office, league sources told ESPN. Butler was vociferous and emotional at times, targeting Thibodeau/Layden/Towns/Wiggins. Story soon on ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 10, 2018
Wojnarowski earlier reported on Wednesday that the Miami Heat are trying to reignite a deal for Butler.
Talks between Miami and Minnesota included the Heat giving up 25-year-old guard Josh Richardson in return for Butler, but the deal fell through when the Wolves apparently upped their demands.
Meanwhile Stefano Fusaro tweeted on Wednesday morning that Minnesota is interested in a trade deal with the Houston Rockets.
They want Eric Gordon and PJ Tucker in return for Butler though, and the Rockets don’t want to part with Tucker.
Jimmy Butler update:
According to a league source, The Wolves contacted the Rockets again Tuesday morning, after their failed deal with Miami this past weekend. Minnesota was still adamant on receiving Eric Gordon and PJ Tucker, but Houston will not put Tucker on the table.
— Stefano Fusaro (@S_Fusaro) October 10, 2018
