Why The Minnesota Timberwolves Do The Deal 

Anthony Edwards recently came out and said that it’s better for him when the Wolves go small. That, to put it lightly, is not ideal. 

After all, the Wolves made the choice to go very big in 2022-23. There was always some logic in the Gobert acquisition. At the same time, it was never a flawless decision either. 

Towns may struggle as an interior defender, but he may struggle even more on the perimeter. If this pairing doesn’t appear viable, this could be a good deal for the Wolves. It brings in several pieces that, in the aggregate, could make them a more cohesive unit. 

If Edwards wants them to go smaller, Barrett could be a great pairing with him on the wing. If he takes a step forward, he could be a great second option behind Edwards. Meanwhile, Toppin provides the type of versatile defense this team lacks alongside Gobert.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota Timberwolves & New York Knicks Updates

Finally, Rose would probably take D’Angelo Russell’s spot, allowing him to slide into a sixth-man role. As a quality pick-and-roll ball-handler, that’ll be an optimal role for him compared to Rose, an elite floor-spacer. 

Is Towns worth the price the Knicks are paying here?