This Lakers-Timberwolves Trade Features D’Angelo Russell

Russell, Los Angeles Lakers, NBA Trade Rumors
NBA Analysis Network
Minnesota Timberwolves
NBA Analysis Network

Why The Minnesota Timberwolves Do The Deal 

For starters, this deal isn’t really about Westbrook for the Timberwolves. It’s about the picks. 

Again – the Timberwolves gave away a bounty of draft capital to land Gobert. Whether that was a mistake or not is to be determined. At the same time, they should be tempted by an opportunity to get some back. 

Still, Westbrook could play a role here. He shouldn’t slot into Russell’s starting spot – that would likely go to Jaylen Nowell, who spaces the floor much more serviceably. Still, one could envision a role for Westbrook with this group. 

In particular, the Wolves could maximize the time he shares with Karl-Anthony Towns. If they’re already staggering him and Gobert, having Westbrook on the floor while Towns is at the 5 could actually maximize the former MVP. 

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: D’Angelo Russell, Minnesota Timberwolves & Los Angeles Lakers Updates

All told, this deal may not help the Wolves in 2022-23, but it may not hurt them too badly. More importantly, it sets them up for the future. What does it do for the Lakers? 

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James Piercey

When it comes to exploring the endless possibilities of NBA trades, there's no one quite like James Piercey. With a keen eye for player dynamics, salary cap intricacies, and a knack for discovering uncharted trade territory, James has risen to prominence as the preeminent expert in the realm of hypothetical NBA trades. James is also known for his work covering the Houston Rockets for SB Nation's The Dream Shake — a blog that gives a daily, comprehensive look at the team. He has written for various outlets, including FanSided and Last Word on Sports, among others.

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