New report hints Timberwolves will definitely trade D’Angelo Russell

For the Minnesota Timberwolves, much of the discussion taking place in the current season has been surrounding Rudy Gobert, and for good reason. The questions surrounding his place with this team in the long-term are loud and legitimate.

But the other oft-mentioned name that has come up when discussing the Timberwolves’ future is D’Angelo Russell. Before the season, we knew that he was headed into a contract year where he would have to earn a potential extension with Minnesota.

So far, he has not produced on the court in a way that has the Wolves begging to bring him back. His name has been mentioned in multiple trade rumors, but it has been unclear if Minnesota is actually committed to moving on from him. Well, until recently, that is.

Brian Windhorst shared his thoughts on D’Angelo Russell on his podcast

NBA Insider Brian Windhorst recently voiced on his podcast that the Timberwolves “need a veteran leader,” and speculated that they may try to move D’Angelo Russell to acquire one. Windhorst clarified that he was not saying Russell is not a valuable veteran, but simply that Minnesota may be looking to move in a different direction.

He even speculated that the Timberwolves might call the Miami Heat to inquire about Kyle Lowry, which lines up with the rumors that surfaced several weeks ago. This is certainly a noteworthy bit of information if Windy is indeed correct.

His comments help to legitimize the theories that Minnesota is ready to move on from D’Angelo Russell and that they do not see him as their franchise point guard in their pursuit of a championship. There have absolutely already been signs that this was the case, but these comments from Windhorst do a lot to strengthen their credibility.

If the Timberwolves do choose to devise a trade that would send D’Angelo Russell elsewhere at the trade deadline, it could end up being a massive win if they are able to bring back a veteran that fits well next to Anthony Edwards and can elevate this squad on and off the floor, a la Patrick Beverley. Offloading D-Lo’s huge contract while bringing in a win-now player could be the move that elevates this team to the level that many fans envisioned them being at before the season started.