Why The Minnesota Timberwolves Do The Deal 

By contrast, the Wolves are gambling on a puree talent upgrade here. 

Irving, simply put, is better than Russell. He’s quicker. He’s a much better ball-handler, and he has a deeper layup bag. Perhaps most importantly, he’s a better shooter. 

That’s the key for the Timberwolves here. Russell is having a poor year from distance, and frankly, he’s never been an elite shooter. Irving opens up a ton of space for this team. That ought to benefit Anthony Edwards as much as anyone. 

Of course, we mentioned that this is a gamble already. That may be an understatement. Irving could easily find another reason to say off the basketball floor before this season is over. 

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyrie Irving, Brooklyn Nets & Minnesota Timberwolves Updates

At the same time, if he doesn’t, the Wolves will be glad to have struck while the iron was hot.