Why The Minnesota Timberwolves Do The Deal

Realistically, this trade isn’t without risk for the Minnesota Timberwolves either.

Firstly, there are inherent risks that come with acquiring Simmons. Unlike others, we won’t speculate on whether his health issues are largely physical or mental. We’ll simply note that, for one reason or another, Simmons often finds himself off the court.

Moreover, there are fit concerns here. A Simmons/Gobert pairing cramps the Wolves’ once-pristine spacing. At the same time, they’d have to be tempted by the idea of pairing, arguably, the two best defenders in basketball.

With some rotational creativity, they could make it work. The Wolves were already likely to stagger Gobert and Towns. Maximizing the amount of time Simmons spends running point while Towns is at the 5, and Gobert is on the bench would be essential.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Updates On Ben Simmons, Brooklyn Nets & Minnesota Timberwolves

Otherwise, the Wolves should be able to survive the minutes they spend with all three on the court. After all, they might be the best defensive team in the NBA.