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There was heavy interest from the Minnesota Timberwolves, who
are coached by former Chicago head man Tom Thibodeau. The Boston
Celtics were reported to have interest. Same for the Orlando
Magic.
But according to Chicago general manager Gar Forman, all that
chatter was nonexistent. He said there weren't any draft-night
talks involving Butler despite the heavy dose of reports that
claimed there was plenty of trade banter.
Chicago traded former MVP Derrick Rose the day before the draft
and a trade of Butler would have indicated a full rebuilding
situation was on the docket.
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Washington Wizards shooting guard Bradley Beal became the latest
player to pass on playing for Team USA in the Summer Olympics at
Rio de Janeiro when he announced that he declined a roster spot.
Beal, who turns 23 on Tuesday, dealt with a leg injury last
season and said on his Twitter account that improving his
physical condition for the 2016-17 NBA season is the top
priority.
Still undecided is Cleveland point guard Kyrie Irving.
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Gary Payton II went undrafted in Thursday's NBA draft but will
get a chance to make a roster as the Houston Rockets signed him
to a three-year contract.
The Rockets also reportedly reached agreement on three-year
deals with Texas point guard Isaiah Taylor and Gonzaga forward
Kyle Wiltjer. (Editing by Steve Keating.)
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