Look: Butler arrives in Minnesota, reunites with coach Thibodeau
With a football and a fanny pack in tow, All-Star Jimmy Butler was all smiles as he arrived in Minnesota on Sunday, days after being traded by the Chicago Bulls.
Butler was greeted at the airport by Timberwolves head coach Tom Thibodeau, who had previously worked with him in The Windy City for four seasons prior to being fired by the Bulls in 2015.
Reunited and it feels so good. #ThibsDelivers #Twolves pic.twitter.com/CBWQB5OsX9
— Timberwolves PR (@Twolves_PR) June 25, 2017
Thibodeau was joined by general manager Scott Layden, who helped orchestrate the deal that landed the Timberwolves Butler and the No. 16 pick in last Thursday's draft in exchange for Zach LaVine, Kris Dunn, and the No. 7 pick.
Welcome to Minnesota, Jimmy Buckets! 👋 pic.twitter.com/bRZH1rnhpW
— Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) June 25, 2017
Prior to departing, Butler recorded a video message for fans in his new home, letting them know that he's ready to win and lead the Timberwolves.
Can't wait to get to work. #PowerOfThePack pic.twitter.com/nSY902FVnp
— Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) June 25, 2017
Related - Celtics GM: 'Minnesota gave up a lot' for Jimmy Butler
Butler joins a roster that already boasts the talents of two former Rookie of the Year winners in Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns. Minnesota finished last season with a 31-51 record, and hasn't qualified for the playoffs since 2004.