Could Help Wiggins Get Back on Track
Obviously, Butler is a better all-around player than Wiggins at this juncture. The Timberwolves need to stick with Wiggins long term. For some, this may be a difficult statement to take in. The 2014 draft pick finished the season averaging 17.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.0 assists.
During the 2016-17 season, which was before Butler came onto the scene, Wiggins averaged 23.6 points, 4 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1 steal per game. Ultimately the addition of Butler could be stunting the growth of Wiggins who is 23 years old. Again Butler is clearly the better player but he has only played all 82 games once in his sophomore season.
Timberwolves owner Glen Taylor says he isn't ready to "give up" on Andrew Wiggins just yet, per @DWolfsonKSTP pic.twitter.com/se9h7TYucA
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) July 14, 2018
On the other hand, Wiggins has only missed one game in all four of his NBA seasons. Yes, you read it correctly he has only missed one game since being drafted in 2014. Keeping the former Kansas Jay Hawk provides the team with durability and a player who can take care of his body.
In theory, it seems to be a given that both Wiggins and Butler can co-exist in a lineup together. But being the third option can be difficult just ask Carmelo Anthony who was recently traded by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Also, think about Kevin Love in the years that he played with LeBron James and Kyrie Irving in Cleveland. If you need one more example think back to the Miami Heat rosters with James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh.
Bosh was arguably the best power forward in the league prior to signing with Miami. However, all three players required the ball in their hands. In addition to needing the ball, the big three were used to being the Alpha dog on their previous teams.
Next Up: T’Wolves Would Gain Roster Flexibility
