Why The Minnesota Timberwolves Do The Deal 

On the other hand, this trade has nothing to do with the Timberwolves’ recent moves. In fact, Russell projects as a good fit with Rudy Gobert in pick-and-roll actions. 

This deal is about moving on from Russell altogether. In the 2021-22 playoffs, the talented point guard underperformed. Moreover, Anthony Edwards is rapidly developing into one of the league’s foremost stars. With Towns already in the fold, it may be time to move on from the ball-dominant floor general. 

In other words, this is about clearing space to increase Edwards’ usage (while maintaining Towns’). If that’s a vision this Timberwolves front office has, moving Russell for auxiliary players seems like a smart decision. Are Hardaway Jr. and Finney-Smith the right players? 

We think so. Hardaway Jr., when healthy, is one of the better off-ball players in the NBA. His shooting gravity will open the floor for the Timberwolves stars.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: D’Angelo Russell, Minnesota Timberwolves & Dallas Mavericks Updates

Meanwhile, Finney-Smith is a solid 3-and-D wing who can man the 4 when the Wolves are staggering Gobert and Towns. After all, he’ll compliment either. 

In other words, the Wolves are landing two quality rotation players here. Is Russell really worth that price to Dallas?