The Minnesota Timberwolves built themselves one of the most complete, well-rounded rosters in the NBA. It took a matter of years and repeat trips to the NBA Draft Lottery, and there were certainly blunders made along the way, but ultimately, the Wolves ended up with one of the most talented young teams in the league.
D’Angelo Russell is most likely to be the odd man out in the Twin City, as he should hold the most trade value out of any piece they’re willing to part ways with, and his fit alongside Anthony Edwards, Karl-Anthony Towns, and the rest of Minnesota’s core is questionable at best.
According to The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski, the Minnesota Timberwolves have ‘not come close’ to reaching an agreement on a trade including D’Angelo Russell. Things could change closer to the NBA Draft, but that’s the present reality.
“The draft is one day away, but to this point, the Timberwolves have not come close on any trades involving Russell or any other player, sources told The Athletic. The discussions are expected to evolve from theoretical to practical the closer it gets to the draft. The Wolves know they have to get better to stay competitive in the Western Conference. Just how aggressive they are in that pursuit could be apparent by the time the first round is over, and the window for blockbuster trades starts to close.”
LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: This Timberwolves-Wizards Trade Sends D’Angelo Russell To D.C.
D’Angelo Russell took major strides on defense last season, remained as effective in the clutch as ever, and is steadfastly one of the most gifted passers in the league. There are certainly several teams who would improve with his services in tow.
It seems that trade interest in the talented, albeit slightly overpaid, point guard isn’t as eager as the T-Wolves expected or hoped, so there likely won’t be a deal done until the draft commences or maybe even after its conclusion.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: This Timberwolves-Wizards Trade Sends D’Angelo Russell To D.C.
Of course, until their team wins the NBA championship, a general manager’s job is never finished. Even with Minnesota’s upstart season last year that saw them claw their way into the playoffs and take the second-seeded Memphis Grizzlies to six games, there are still plenty of areas of improvement on the Wolves’ roster.