Why the Trade Benefits the Minnesota Timberwolves

The Minnesota Timberwolves have to be happy about the contributions they got during their season-opening victory. Karl-Anthony Towns was his usual self with 22 points and 11 rebounds but it was the play of their guards, especially off the bench, that shined.

Russell came off the bench and scored 18 points. No. 1 overall pick Anthony Edwards added 15 points in his debut. Malik Beasley led the team with 23 points. Minnesota showed some depth in the backcourt, which is something they have lacked in recent years.

This means they have some flexibility to make a trade such as this one. It is obvious that they will not be trading Russell or Edwards. This leaves Okogie as one of the biggest trade pieces on the team.

The return will not be astronomical but it could be beneficial down the line in another deal. McKinnie and second-round draft capital are nice sweeteners in deals moving forward.