NBA Trade Rumors: Miami Heat, LA Clippers The Top Contenders To Land Wolves' Jimmy Butler?

The rumor mill this week has been in full effect over the trade status of Minnesota Timberwolves swingman Jimmy Butler. ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the New York Times' Marc Stein and the Athletic's Sam Amick have all provided some insight into where the disgruntled star may ultimately end up.

The Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Clippers, two teams on Butler's list of preferred destinations, are reportedly the top contenders to reach a deal with the Wolves. Minnesota, however, is in no hurry to trade Butler, perhaps leaving the door open for other teams to make a better offer.

The Heat's interest in Butler is particularly interesting. Butler will be a free agent at the end of the 2018-19 season and the Heat don't have salary-cap space next summer to sign him, so a trade is the only feasible way he can join the club.

Wojnarowski reported that the Timberwolves have shown interest in the Heat's Bam Adebayo, Josh Richardson and a protected 2019 first-round pick.

Stein reported that the Heat are considered the favorites to land Butler and that Miami has made a strong push to acquire the 29-year-old.

Amick reported that there is skepticism as to whether the Wolves have a strong interest in making a deal soon due to owner Glen Taylor's high asking price.

Minnesota is looking to part ways with big man Gorgui Dieng, who in October 2016 signed a four-year deal worth $64 million. Any deal involving Dieng would almost certainly require a three-team trade.

Meanwhile, Chris Haynes of Yahoo! Sports reported that the Clippers and Wolves have discussed a deal, with Minnesota asking for forward Tobias Harris. The 26-year-old is coming off a strong season and looked sharp in 32 games with the Clippers after being acquired from the Detroit Pistons in January.

The Clippers may be unwilling to part ways with Harris, who is entering the final year of his contract.

Other teams that may have interest in Butler include the Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, New York Knicks, Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Lakers.