NBA Rumors: Jimmy Butler To Meet With Tom Thibodeau To Discuss Future With Timberwolves
Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

While the Los Angeles Lakers put themselves in position to sign two max-level free agents this summer, president of basketball operations Magic Johnson noted the franchise had two years to retool their roster.

SHOP NOW: CHECK OUT THE LATEST MERCH ????????????

The Lakers proceeded to sign LeBron James, but rather than break up their young core in a Kawhi Leonard trade, kept the group intact and added veterans on one-year contracts. While improving the roster, the Lakers maintained flexibility for 2019 free agency.

A star-studded group of players are expected to reach the open market, with the likes of Jimmy Butler, Kevin Durant, Leonard and Klay Thompson among the notable names. The Lakers have already been linked to each of the aforementioned players.

It’s plausible there could be movement with Butler before free agency, as he is scheduled to meet with Tom Thibodeu to discuss his future with the Minnesota Timberwolves, according to Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic:

Minnesota finished this past season 47-35, good for the eighth seed in the Western Conference. They were promptly eliminated by the Houston Rockets in five games in the first round of the playoffs.

The Timberwolves didn’t make any significant changes during the offseason, first signing Anthony Tolliver, then Luol Deng upon clearing waivers after he was bought out and stretched by the Lakers.

This isn’t the first suggestion at unrest existing between Butler and the Timberwolves. In July, he rejected a four-year, $100 million contract extension. Prior to that decision, a report indicated Butler had grown tired of the behavior and work ethic of some teammates.

With regard to the Lakers, Butler reportedly is interested in playing alongside James. But with the 29-year-old due to become a free agent after this season, the Lakers may remain consistent in refusing to trade assets under such a scenario. Just as they did with Paul George and Leonard.

Of course, Butler and Thibodeu have a longstanding relationship, which could easily lend to any concerns being smoothed over.

Are you following us on Instagram? We’ve changed our handle to @LakersNationOfficial! Find us on Facebook at @LakersNation, and on Twitter @LakersNation.

You May Also Like

NBA Rumors: Rule Changes To ‘Unnatural’ Shooting Motions Used To Draw Fouls Being Explored

Over the last few seasons, the NBA has seen a lot of changes in the way the game of basketball has been played…

Lakers Rumors: No ‘Immediate Plan’ For Open Roster Spot After Luol Deng Buyout

After only appearing in 57 games over the last two seasons, Luol Deng was bought out via stretch provision by the Los…

Lakers Rumors: Players Don’t Believe Standing Pat At Trade Deadline Is Viable

The Los Angeles Lakers — and the rest of the NBA — sit just about one day away from a potentially seismic…

NBA Free Agency Rumors: D’Angelo Russell ‘Top Priority’ For Timberwolves Amid Lakers’ Continued Interest

With 2019 NBA free agency officially underway via meetings between players and teams and reported contract offers…