NBA Season Preview 2018-19: 5 things to watch for on Opening Night

BOSTON - MAY 9: Boston Celtics' Terry Rozier III leaps to try and block a pass from the 76ers' Joel Embiid during the first half. The Boston Celtics host the Philadelphia 76ers in Game Five of the NBA Eastern Conference Semi Final playoff series at TD Garden in Boston on May 9, 2018. (Photo by Jim Davis/The Boston Globe via Getty Images) /

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3. The hot mess in Minnesota

What a wild ride it’s been for Jimmy Butler and the Timberwolves. After a 16-game jump in the win column and making the playoffs for the first time in 14 years, everything’s imploding in the North Star State.

While the latest trade negotiations fell through, Butler will inevitably be on the move at some point this season. It’s clear this team doesn’t get along as currently constituted, led by its best player’s distaste with the young guys and their work ethic. If Butler doesn’t get dealt soon, it’ll make for a spicy locker room.

The difficulty with the trade is a question of where the leverage lies.

When Butler does get moved, it’ll likely be for a package of players and picks. In the aftermath, we’ll be left with queries about the ascensions of Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns. Without Butler’s high-usage game and malcontent as crutches, the young wolves will have no excuses for not stepping up.

Until then, enjoy the show. Butler’s sparked the dramatic saga of the fledgling season: coming to practices on that Killmonger flow, trying to eviscerate his teammates, taking shots at the front office, then doing pre-planned interviews with Rachel Nichols. Until he gets traded (or someone gets traded), there’s sure to be plenty of finger-pointing, side-eyeing, and sub-Tweet subterfuge in Minnesota. Get your popcorn.