NBA Trade Rumors: Cavs, Wolves trying to trade for Jimmy Butler?

Apr 23, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) talks with Chicago Bulls head coach Fred Hoiberg during the second half in game four of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 23, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) talks with Chicago Bulls head coach Fred Hoiberg during the second half in game four of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

NBA Trade Rumors: The Minnesota Timberwolves and Cleveland Cavaliers are reportedly trying to trade for Jimmy Butler

Depending on who you’re willing to believe, the Chicago Bulls have nearly traded Jimmy Butler multiple times over the last calendar year. During last year’s NBA Draft and trade deadline, those whispers were heard loudest.

And, now, it appears like we’re going down that road again.

According to The Vertical’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Chicago Bulls and Minnesota Timberwolves had preliminary contact regarding a potential Jimmy Butler trade.

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Perhaps most interestingly, per ESPN’s Marc Stein, the Cleveland Cavaliers are also trying to get their hands on Butler.

"[via The Vertical]Sources: Chicago’s price for Jimmy Butler remains elevated, but Minnesota has assets and interest. Sides made preliminary contact this week.[via ESPN]The Cavaliers, per league sources, have been working today on assembling multi-team trade scenarios to try to acquire Chicago’s Jimmy ButlerThe Cavs obviously have to rope in at least one more team to provide the assets Chicago would surely demand but, sources say, are trying."

The Bulls’ asking price for Butler has always been reportedly high. Although, as Woj notes, the Wolves do have the assets to make such a deal. Question is, is Minnesota willing to move some of their most coveted pieces.

For example, would they be willing to move Zach LaVine and/or Andrew Wiggins?

In the past, they have not been as willing to make such a move. However, after another somewhat disappointing season, perhaps Chicago is ready to blow it all up and begin a true rebuild?

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The Cavs, on the other hand, have more of an uphill battle to get a potential deal done. They would need to find a third team in order to find the proper young assets and/or draft picks to get the Bulls to have a reasonable conversation.