How This Trade Impacts Minnesota Timberwolves
The Minnesota Timberwolves made the playoffs for the first time since 2017 and are looking to shake things up a little bit this offseason. D’Angelo Russell has been mentioned as a trade candidate, and in this hypothetical deal, they send him to the New York Knicks.
While none of the players coming back may have the upside of Russell, their rotation is deeper and stronger across the board. Derrick Rose will help stabilize the second unit as a veteran leader off the bench, providing some scoring punch in the backcourt with Malik Beasley.
Alec Burks showed just how versatile he can be this season. He is a bigger wing that can run the offense in a pinch. He brings some defensive presence as well, something Minnesota could use more of. He can function off the bench or in the starting five, whatever Chris Finch needs him to do.
Nerlens Noel struggled to stay healthy during the 2021-22 season. But, when on the court, is an impact defender. He can anchor your defense as a rim protector but is athletic enough to switch onto the perimeter as well.
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His loss was a big reason the Knicks weren’t as consistent on the defensive end this past season as the 2020-21 campaign. He will provide a big upgrade in the middle on that end of the court.
The first-round pick in 2023 is a solid sweetener for the Timberwolves. While the Mavericks look like they will be contenders for the foreseeable future, first-round picks provide a team with some maneuverability to make moves. If a veteran Minnesota likes become available, they can use the first-round pick to build a trade package.
