OKC Thunder: 3 Jimmy Butler trades OKC can benefit from
Minnesota Timberwolves:
The Timberwolves receive four players who all shoot the three above 37 percent with the most complete player being Josh Richardson. At 25 years old, Richardson has established himself as one of the best upcoming two-way players in the business. He is an excellent perimeter defender and helps the Wolves porous defense.
Tyler Johnson is capable of playing both guard positions and an excellent shot creator off the bounce. Minnesota are currently trying Derrick Rose at shooting guard with mixed results. Johnson is a surprisingly solid defender and is a better option beside Jeff Teague, Rose or Tyus Jones.
Ferguson is just 21 years-old loaded with potential. While he had an up and down rookie season, his 24-point explosion against the Los Angeles Lakers indicates what he’s capable of. Additionally, TFerg provides cover on the wings behind Wiggins.
Abrines is 25 years-old and has established himself as a knock down perimeter shooter. While his defense is improving, the Spaniard will space the floor and hit open shots from the perimeter.
Lastly, Minnesota receive its desire for a first-round pick from the Miami Heat. The pick is likely to fall in the 20-30 range next year but its a pick nonetheless.
Miami Heat:
Since the disbanding of the Big 3 at the end of the 2013-14 season, Miami have been caught in no-mans land. With no legitimate shot at winning the chip the past five seasons, the Heat have become content with making the playoffs which is unusual for a Pat Riley-lead organization. This trade finally gives them the star they are looking for.
Butler moves into a Miami system whose culture surrounding fits his hardworking, blue collar attitude. It gives the Heat a star to pair with Goran Dragic and a closer whose proven to make big shots when lights shine the brightest. Butler is an exceptional perimeter defender and fits seamlessly into a strong defensive scheme.
Gorgui Dieng offers Miami cover at the Center position who is a solid mid-range shooter and rebounder in limited minutes. He will give Miami energy when the team is flat and a big man with a new-age skill set.
OKC Thunder:
Now that Andre Roberson‘s recovery is delayed for an extra two months, OKC must find a wing whose game is predicated on defense. The Thunder enter this season looking to suffocate opposing teams with smothering defensive pressure and acquiring Justise Winslow is a nice piece to compliment Paul George.
The former lottery pick is a strong defender capable of guarding players two through four and some fives. He had a nice year from three last season, shooting a career high 38 percent but it remains to be seen whether he’s legitimately improved or not.
Keita Bates-Diop is an intriguing prospect who needs time to develop. Listed at 6’9 with a 7’3 wingspan, he’s a solid defender, strong rebounder and possesses all the physical tools to be a rim protector. While still extremely raw offensively, OKC could develop him as a low cost, long-term project to occupy the roster.