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The Timberwolves' new guard Jimmy Butler made a quick first impression at an introductory press conference Thursday at Mall of America, giving out his digits in response to a question about recent criticism of his 

trade to the Wolves from the Chicago Bulls

"It's not frustrating, it's expected," Butler said. "I'm fine. Everybody is entitled to their opinion, but with that being said, my phone's in my back pocket right now. If whoever has anything to say to me, feel free."

The crowd erupted in laughter, with a few cheers and incomprehensible shouts from fans in the balconies, who were already excited enough to welcome Butler. 

Timberwolves head coach Tom Thibodeau was eager to be reunited with Butler, who he previously coached during his time with the Bulls.

"We're excited to have Jimmy," the coach said. "Watching him become a three-time All-Star, an Olympian, gold medalist, All-NBA — it's a tribute to the way he works and who he is as a person. He's a great person, he's a great leader, and we're thrilled to have him."

Butler said he's already felt a connection to Minnesota. 

"You all will see me doing the most in this city to make it the best place it can possibly be ... You all are definitely my people, and I will be in this community to the best of my ability," he told fans. "I am so happy to be here, to represent this city now, and I look forward to my future here."

Butler started his career at Tyler Junior College in Texas before moving to Marquette University. He played with the Bulls for six seasons before being traded to the Timberwolves.

Hannah Kangas

Author

The Timberwolves' new guard Jimmy Butler made a quick first impression at an introductory press conference Thursday at Mall of America.

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