As the forum's only (I think) Timberwolves junkie, here's my perspective on Butler:
Dude is still young (turns 28 in September), signed for two more seasons (has a player option for third), and is in his prime. Two-way player. Exactly what the Wolves needed. Defense, still young, dynamic offensive player, and leader.
On the other side, Chicago fans shouldn't be so quick to dismiss this. I have watched LaVine play probably 40 times (four or five live, the rest on TV). He's a BEAST. He made so many strides last year before getting hurt. He has that killer instinct scoring mentality and elevation on his shot ala Kobe and MJ. He's got that knack. Mark my words, in an offense catered to him as the #1 option, he'll be 25-28 ppg next year. Book it right now. He's going to light up the league. Tireless worker. Freak athlete. Not afraid of taking the big shot.
Honestly, had Butler only had one year left on his deal, I wouldn't have wanted this to happen. The ONLY reason I am good with it, from a Wolves perspective, is that we have him for a solid two years, and then that player option for a third. LaVine is going to be THAT good. The problem was, with KAT and Wiggins, LaVine was always going to be the third banana in Minnesota. It would have come to a head soon, and everyone knew it. LaVine is too good to be a third option.
Remember when Harden left OKC, because OKC wouldn't pay him and he didn't want to come off the bench? Then he goes to Houston and lights it up? Well, consider Chicago to be LaVine's version of Houston. Because LaVine is going to take the league by storm and be a perennial All Star. Trust me.
Dunn has made strides. The jury is still out. I like his defensive intensity, but his offensive game needs work. I think this year will be the tell all year for him. If he's given the keys and starts at the point all year, you'll know by the end of the year if you need a future PG or not. My guess is Dunn will be fine. He'll be a 15 ppg, 7 ast guy, a bit in the Chauncey Billups mold, but with better defense.
As for Lauri Markannan -- best shooter in the draft. I think he's going to be something special. The Bulls did the right thing, and really got some good stuff for Butler. I wouldn't be depressed.
Honestly -- as a Wolves fan, had Butler only had one year left, I would have been really angry. LaVine, when it is all said and one, will be way better than Butler. Wait and see. You just got your REAL baby Jordan.
For the Wolves, the trade makes all kinds of sense, and positions the team for the playoffs. The next question is...will Thibs stick with Rubio. I think at this point, if Rubio can be the shooter he was the last two months of the season, they should stick with him. What the team needs now is shooting depth. A stretch 4, and a couple of combo guards with range.