The Timberwolves’ Rudy Gobert trade is aging better by the day
By Will Eudy
4. Jarred Vanderbilt
Playing on his second team since leaving the Timberwolves, Jarred Vanderbilt found a nice niche with the Lakers as a perimeter stopper and was able to make his way into their playoff rotation as they reached the Western Conference Finals.
Two seasons ago in Minnesota, he started 67 games in the frontcourt alongside Karl-Anthony Towns, bringing important minutes as a rebounder and doing a lot of the dirty work to help the Wolves succeed. The problem was, he was less useful when going against bigger lineups that could take advantage of his smaller frame for a center.
Of course, every player has deficiencies and things that make them exploitable. But Vanderbilt’s overall fit with the team going forward was questionable enough in the eyes of Tim Connelly that it was worth it to move him for the right price. Rudy Gobert’s interior presence as a rebounder and shot-blocker were a clear upgrade over what Vanderbilt brought to the table.
As if that was not enough, the Timberwolves may have even found a better version of Jarred Vanderbilt last month in Leonard Miller. After Minnesota took Miller with the 33rd overall pick in the draft, he has showcased that he may just have the skillset to replace what Vanderbilt brought to the table. It does not seem that Vando will be missed in the Twin Cities anytime soon.