Minnesota Timberwolves Receive: C Jaxson Hayes, F/C Larry Nance Jr., G Devonte Graham

New Orleans Pelicans Receive: G D’Angelo Russell, G/F Leandro Bolmaro

Recently, rumors suggest that the Minnesota Timberwolves are interested in landing a rim-protecting big to pair with Karl-Anthony Towns. They’ve also suggested that they’re interested in parting with D’Angelo Russell.

Both rumors make sense. Towns, for all of his offensive gifts, is a notoriously poor defender. Meanwhile, Russell was hopelessly unreliable in the 2021-22 playoffs. The Wolves may prefer to focus more possessions around Towns and Anthony Edwards’ unique abilities.

Most speculation links the Wolves to bigger fish than Jaxson Hayes. They’re alleged to be in the market for Rudy Gobert and Clint Capela. Whether either is affordable is a different concern.

Hayes ought to be. Furthermore, he’d make a nice fit. The 22-year-old showcased a little more offensive ability than he was previously thought to have as he covered the 4 for Zion Williamson last season. Meanwhile, he provides the rim protection they’re looking for as well.

LATEST NBA FREE AGENCY NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: Lakers, Nets Could Re-Visit Kyrie Irving, Russell Westbrook Trade?

As for the Pelicans, they could use a floor general like Russell. Last season, they gave considerable time to CJ McCollum at the point. This deal allows them to slide him back into his natural off-guard role, and brings in a veteran who can show incoming rookie Dyson Daniels the ropes as well.