The writing was on the wall that Jimmy Butler wasn't a happy camper in Minnesota following last season's first-round playoff exit.
The 29-year-old headed to Los Angeles instead of flying back with his Minnesota Timberwolves teammates after they were bounced in a 122-104 Game 5 blowout by the Houston Rockets, league sources told The Athletic's Jon Krawczynski.
Butler also didn't do his medical exam which all players go through as part of their exit interviews.
It was a few days later when he reportedly began expressing doubts that he'd re-sign with the organization at the end of the 2018-19 campaign. Butler's representatives had also reportedly met with head coach and president Tom Thibodeau in July to convey their client's unhappiness.
Thibodeau reportedly visited Butler last month after the four-time All-Star had undergone minor hand surgery, which is when Butler told Thibodeau directly that he was unsure he wanted to stay with Minnesota long term. The two recently met last week, and that's when Butler requested to be traded.
Related - Report: Butler skeptical of Thibodeau's efforts to trade him
Minnesota's preseason opens on Sept. 29 on the road against the Golden State Warriors. If management can't fulfill the trade request by then, Thibodeau said during Monday's media day that Butler will rejoin the team.
