The Minnesota Timberwolves might not be done making offseason moves after acquiring all-star Jimmy Butler.
ESPN's Marc Stein reported that the Wolves are trying to trade point guard Ricky Rubio to acquire more perimeter shooting.
Related: 3-time All-Star Jimmy Butler traded in blockbuster NBA Draft deal
Rubio has three years left on his deal, and he will make just over $14 million next season. He will earn just under $15 million in the 2018-19 season.
Even after acquiring Butler, the Wolves would have some flexibility with their cap space if they can move Rubio. Karl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins are still on rookie contracts, so they could potentially add a top free agent to go along with their three stars.
Rubio averaged 11 points and nine assists per game last season, but he is only a 31.5 percent shooter from 3-point range for his career. He was the No. 5 overall pick of the 2009 NBA Draft when the Wolves famously took two point guards—they took Jonny Flynn at No. 6—before Steph Curry was selected No. 7 overall.
If the Wolves are planning to acquire a point guard who can shoot better than Rubio, they could target free agent George Hill, though Hill will likely seek a max contract.
The Wolves will have options if they can move Rubio or center Nikola Pekovic, but they should be a much improved team next season regardless.
