Report: T-Wolves, Butler agreed to soft minutes restriction

As the Minnesota Timberwolves and disgruntled star Jimmy Butler continue to search for a solution to both parties' long-term needs, the sides agreed to a soft limit of 32 minutes of playing time per game, sources told The New York Times' Marc Stein.

The exact timing of the agreement is unclear, but Butler has exceeded 32 minutes in all but two contests this season, averaging 35.6 minutes per game through nine appearances. Butler played a season-high 43 minutes in his most recent outing versus the Los Angeles Lakers on Nov. 7.

Stein added that the Timberwolves also intend to continue giving Butler games off for "scheduled rest," further mitigating the potential for injury before Minnesota can find a trade partner.

One reason for the reported cap on playing time is to work Butler back into top form. He sat out most of the preseason after making his desire to be traded clear to both team president and coach Tom Thibodeau and owner Glen Taylor.