The headline “Jimmy Butler turns down max contract” is eye-catching, is it not? Sure, but it also lacks all-important context.
We first discussed the report that the Timberwolves were preparing to make a massive contract offer to Butler back around the start of free agency. It was unsurprising, as Butler is in the prime of his career and certainly worth the money. But it was news nonetheless.
The Wolves reportedly made the offer, and our friend Darren Wolfson of KSTP in the Twin Cities confirmed via owner Glen Taylor that the offer had officially been declined.