Why The Minnesota Timberwolves Do The Deal

Sometimes, pure talent isn’t the only factor that dictates a team’s decisions. When building an NBA roster, fit matters too.

The Timberwolves should build their 2022-23 offense around Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards. It will be interesting to see how Towns fares alongside Rudy Gobert. With less defensive responsibility, his offensive production could take an even larger leap forward.

Even if it doesn’t, he’s one of the best offensive big men in the NBA. Meanwhile, Edwards is primed to take a leap in his third year. He’s one of the most athletic guards in the league, and his skills are constantly developing too.

D’Angelo Russell is a talented floor general, but he’s not a compliment to either. He tends to be ball-dominant, and he’s a solid, but unreliable floor spacer. He’s also prone to unfortunate lapses on the defensive end.

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Lowry’s lower-usage game should be a better fit, especially given that he’s a more reliable three-point threat and defender.

All of which begs the question: why would the Heat give up a first-round pick to flip him for Russell?