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Report: Butler took issue with Wiggins' work ethic, defense

Hannah Foslien / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Nobody seems particularly happy within the Minnesota Timberwolves organization despite the franchise making its first playoff appearance in more than a decade this past season.

The latest apparent issue to come to light concerns Jimmy Butler and Andrew Wiggins, who formed an awkward pairing in their first season as teammates.

Butler "had problems" with Wiggins' work ethic and lackadaisical defense, according to Sean Deveney of the Sporting News. Timberwolves coach Tom Thibodeau also reportedly had similar issues with Wiggins.

Deveney also reported that Butler is "uncertain" about Wiggins, which could impact the former's decision to sign a long-term extension to remain with the Timberwolves. Butler's current deal runs through 2018-19, with a player option to remain through the following campaign.

The addition of Butler after a trade from the Chicago Bulls helped the Timberwolves immensely this past season, as he not only became the best two-way player on the team, but also filled a leadership void that had existed since Kevin Garnett was traded. However, his presence undercut an expected breakout season from Wiggins, as the former Rookie of the Year had to take a back seat to the new go-to player.

Wiggins ultimately posted his worst numbers since his rookie season, and didn't show any marked improvements, which ownership was expecting after he signed a five-year, $150-million extension last summer.

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