Why The Minnesota Timberwolves Do The Deal 

Poor Minnesota Timberwolves. They gave up four first-round picks, in addition to plenty of quality young players, all to acquire Rudy Gobert. Now, they’re moving a little more draft capital just to get off of his contract. That’s life.

The Wolves overpaid for Gobert in the first place. Now, that’s a sunk cost. If this isn’t working, they need to do what they can to move on.

Besides, they’re getting a quality return here. Malcolm Brogdon would be a day-one starter for this team. Mike Conley could revert to a sixth-man role — making the Timberwolves a very deep backcourt team.

All told, this deal should make the Timberwolves a better team next season. Hopefully, that stops them from trying to punch each other in the middle of games. 

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Rudy Gobert, Boston Celtics & Minnesota Timberwolves Updates   

Al Horford could be a stopgap option for the Timberwolves in the frontcourt, especially if they prove unable to retain Naz Reid in free agency.