Bulls send Jimmy Butler to Wolves for LaVine, Dunn
The Minnesota Timberwolves made a big splash during Thursday's NBA draft, acquiring All-NBA swingman Jimmy Butler in a trade with the Chicago Bulls.
The Bulls received Zach LaVine, Kris Dunn, and this year's seventh overall pick, while the Timberwolves obtained the No. 16 pick in addition to Butler. As part of the transaction, the Bulls will also reportedly open up a $15.3-million trade exception.
Chicago took Arizona big man Lauri Markkanen with the seventh pick, while Minnesota chose Creighton center Justin Patton 16th overall.
Butler's name has popped up in trade rumors over the past few weeks, with the Denver Nuggets, Boston Celtics, and Cleveland Cavaliers all reportedly expressing interest in the 27-year-old.
He's coming off his best season as a pro, in which he averaged 23.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 1.9 steals on 45.5 percent shooting.
LaVine averaged 18.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, and three assists before his season was cut short when he tore his ACL.