Jimmy Butler trade rumors: 10 potential landing spots

9. Milwaukee Bucks

Khris Middleton is about as good a player as the Timberwolves could hope for in a Jimmy Butler trade where they have zero leverage. Middleton posted similar numbers last year, averaging 20.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.5 steals per game while shooting 46.6 percent from the field and 35.9 percent from downtown.

Throw in a recent first round selection like D.J. Wilson that it feels like the Milwaukee Bucks aren’t particularly high on, and the framework of a fair deal is there.

However, this might not accurately reflect the lack of leverage Minnesota has right now. While the Bucks would love the upgrade from Middleton to Butler, and such a move would provide Giannis Antetokounmpo with a legitimate co-star, Middleton is also two years younger and won’t cost as much to re-sign in free agency.

Middleton fits the 3-and-D mold Thibodeau will be craving in a potential trade, but Milwaukee might prefer a younger player of his caliber over investing $190 million in Butler through his mid-30s.