Jimmy Butler will miss the Timberwolves' matchup with the Trail Blazers on Sunday the team confirmed, inactive due to "precautionary rest." But Butler's decision to sit isn't a typical All-Star absence.
According to The Athletic's Shams Charania, Butler's decision to stay off the floor is the "next step in a six-week-long process aimed at getting the All-Star out of Minnesota." And the rest isn't expected to end on Sunday night. Butler could take an "extended absence," per Charania, holding out until he is dealt to a new franchise.
Butler's absence on Sunday won't be his first inactive night of the season.