Dallas Mavericks Receive: G D’Angelo Russell

Minnesota Timberwolves Receive: F Davis Bertans, G Spencer Dinwiddie, G Frank Ntilikina, 2025 First-Round Pick (DAL)

This trade finds the Dallas Mavericks acquiring D’Angelo Russell at the expense of, effectively, spare parts and a first-round pick.

With the Timberwolves looking to take a step forward next season, there are reasons to think they’d decline this deal. They’ll be interested if they’re cool enough on Russell.

They’d have to view this deal as a case of addition by subtraction. In that event, they’d be happy to make this deal. The veterans they’re receiving may not be game-changers, but a first-round pick is a high-quality asset to receive for Russell.

It won’t be an easy decision. Russell’s friendship with Karl-Anthony Towns is well-documented, but NBA championships aren’t built on friendships.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: This Mavericks-Pacers Trade is Focused On Myles Turner To Dallas

If the Timberwolves have the guts to make this trade, it could benefit them in the long run.

Let’s take a closer look at why that may be the case.