Minnesota Timberwolves Receive: F Gordon Hayward, F/C P.J. Washington, 2024 First-Round Pick (CHA) 

Charlotte Hornets Receive: C Rudy Gobert

Big men may not dominate the league anymore. They still have a place in it. 

In all likelihood, that will remain the case. Height will always be an advantage in the game of basketball. In simple terms, being closer to the basket makes it easier to put the ball in it – and stop opponents from doing the same. 

Frankly, the league’s shift away from traditional bigs has had as much to do with skill as anything. Today, big men are expected to be able to shoot, and defend the perimeter. If they can’t, they’d better excel in traditional big-man abilities. 

For example, take Rudy Gobert. He can’t shoot, and he’s not a strong perimeter defender either.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Rudy Gobert, Utah Jazz & Minnesota Timberwolves Updates

On the other hand, he’s such an elite rim protector, rebounder, screen setter, and pick-and-roll finisher that he’s still a star in this league. 

Are the Wolves getting enough back for such a useful player?