Trade Package No. 3

Timberwolves acquire Blake Griffin

Pistons acquire D’Angelo Russell, Jake Layman

In this first trade, the Wolves part with D’Angelo Russell, one of their only players who has a salary close to Griffin’s.

The last year-and-a-half have been a rollercoaster for Russell and the Wolves. Minnesota pushed hard to sign Russell as a free agent last offseason. He chose Golden State, but was then dealt to Minnesota for Andrew Wiggins and picks.

The reason Russell is included is mostly because Towns should be untouchable. That’s not to say he absolutely won’t be traded. But he shouldn’t be.

By trading Russell, the Wolves could still grab Anthony Edwards at No. 1 overall, keeping their backcourt options open.

From Detroit’s perspective, they acquire a star in Russell to hold down their backcourt. The Pistons might move Derrick Rose this offseason, and Russell can step in and lead the way. The Pistons would love the No. 1 pick, but it shouldn’t happen for an injury-prone forward such as Griffin.