This Explains Jimmy Butler’s Alpha Status

You have to remember why Jimmy Butler deserves his alpha status:

As he looked ahead to the offseason later in the radio interview, Taylor told Hartman that part of the team’s attempt to lure free agents to Minnesota this summer would rely on Jimmy Butler’s communications with other players.

Lee doesn’t see it that way.

“That’s not Jimmy’s role,” Lee said when asked about Taylor’s comment. “I don’t think that’s something Jimmy should be responsible for. Jimmy should be responsible for trying to become the best player he possibly can and trying to help this organization win as many games as possible.”

Never mind what his agent said.

Re-read his agent’s comments, and think about this: Jimmy’s charisma, Jimmy’s ability to recruit free agents—Jimmy Butler is the player the Timberwolves need to attract more winners to this team.

Especially when he makes plays like this:

(Not saying you can’t. Of course you can!)

So, think about it for another second. This—this alone—explains Jimmy Butler’s alpha status: he’s a proven winner, and his political capital could change the course of this franchise.