Typically, the team that wins the NBA championship is a two-way team. The best formula is to assemble a team that can dominate both offensively and defensively. With that said, there’s only so much talent in the league. Some teams are forced to lean in one direction or the other.
Which direction is better to lean in? We’d argue that if you’re going to be a one-way team, it’s best to be offensively minded. Trying to outscore a team is a better strategy than trying to stop a team from scoring. If you can’t get buckets, it’s more difficult to win basketball games.
With that in mind, the New Orleans Pelicans have the makings of an elite offensive team. Injuries have held them back, but the combined abilities of Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and CJ McCollum can overwhelm opponents. Perhaps that’s why plenty of observers are expecting them to trade for a strong defensive big man this summer. Could they go the other way by acquiring Karl-Anthony Towns from the Minnesota Timberwolves?
The Trade Proposal
Minnesota Timberwolves receive: G CJ McCollum, 2024 First-Round Pick (LAL via NOP), 2025 First-Round Pick (MIL via NOP)
New Orleans Pelicans receive: F/C Karl-Anthony Towns
Some would argue that the decision starts in the middle. If you’ve got a defensive-minded big man, it’s easier to anchor an elite defense. By contrast, if your big man is offensively oriented, you may find yourselves trying to outscore opponents. This season, the Timberwolves tried to find the best of both worlds.
The logic was simple enough. The Timberwolves have struggled defensively with Towns in the middle. So, they acquired Rudy Gobert to cover for him. That made sense. Unfortunately, the pairing didn’t look optimal on the offensive side of the floor.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota Timberwolves & New Orleans Pelicans Updates
Their combined speed bogged the Wolves’ offense down. The Wolves were slow, and it didn’t compliment Anthony Edwards. The Wolves could give this another try next season, but if they wanted to change course, we wouldn’t blame them. Would this be the right direction for them?
Why The Minnesota Timberwolves Do The Deal
The Wolves may need to make some changes. Still, they should avoid a major step backward. The Wolves don’t want to alienate Edwards. Whatever they do this summer, they should be aiming to be competitive in 2023-24.
This deal should help them stay competitive. Yes, they’re losing the best player in this trade. Still, McCollum is no slouch. His ability to create his own shot and space the floor will keep the Wolves humming. Meanwhile, they’ll be able to pair Gobert with Jaden McDaniels in the frontcourt to anchor a potentially elite defense.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota Timberwolves & New Orleans Pelicans Updates
Of course, McCollum is not as impactful of a player as Towns. That’s why the Wolves are getting two unprotected first-round picks here. All told, that could be enough to convince them to part with Towns. Should the Pelicans want him?
Why The New Orleans Pelicans Do The Deal
This is a risky move for the Pelicans. Towns is a defensive liability. It’s been widely rumored that the Pelicans want an anchor at that position. If they’d prefer to make a move for Jarrett Allen or Clint Capela, that’s reasonable.
On the other hand, imagine the offensive dynamic here. When he’s healthy, no player generates rim pressure like Williamson. How do you contain him with Towns on the perimeter? Meanwhile, Ingram should thrive as a safety valve who can create his own shot. The Pelicans could be unguardable after making this move.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota Timberwolves & New Orleans Pelicans Updates
Besides, they’ve got some great defensive players who can offset Towns’ limitations. Larry Nance Jr. is a combo big who can support either Towns or Williamson. Trey Murphy III and Herb Jones are both outstanding on that end. The Pelicans would have some defensive ability on their roster – even if they’re leaning into offense.
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