Minnesota Timberwolves: 2017-18 player grades for Jimmy Butler
Final grade
Overall it was safe to say that Butler had a great first season with the Wolves, despite going down with an injury and struggling to hit clutch shots. He helped propel Minnesota into the playoffs and got himself another All-Star game nomination.
It would have been nice to see him play better in the playoffs, because who knows what would of happened if he did? Again, he was a little banged up and that easily played a role in how he fared. Moving into next season, Butler will need to continue to play at an All-Star level if the Wolves want to make the playoffs.
We know teams in the West are only going to get better and that means, so do the Wolves. Rumors are rumors and we don’t know what this offseason or next is going to look like. We do know this – Butler is still with Minnesota for at least one more year.
If the Wolves’ exit interviews are anything to consider, Butler will be used as a recruiter to bring free agents in for next year’s run at the playoffs.
Thibs says they need more versatility, are "looking to add wings" as well as "3-point shooting, the ability to play more than one position, the ability to guard your own position."
— Jerry Zgoda (@JerryZgoda) April 30, 2018
If they stay true to this, Timberwolves fans can hopefully expect a bigger season and not as stressful an end to the season like this one.
Next: Full two-round 2018 NBA Mock Draft
Grade: A