5 Trades that make Timberwolves serious title contenders
By Tyler Watts
The Minnesota Timberwolves are one of the most slept-on teams in the NBA. They were rarely healthy last season but qualified for the playoffs where they matched up with the eventual champion Nuggets in round one. Minnesota handed Denver one of their four postseason losses and left the roster feeling like they can compete with anyone.
Anthony Edwards took another step forward leading Team USA this summer. The Wolves will also have time for Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert to mesh in the frontcourt. Minnesota has talent, but did not make a massive upgrade this offseason. They believe internal growth will be enough to make them a title challenger.
The Wolves may be a few small pieces away if they can make their frontcourt excel. They would have to pull off another blockbuster if it does not. Minnesota wants to make a deep playoff run in 2024, but how can they increase their odds?
Trades that make Minnesota Timberwolves serious title contenders
5. Wolves add 3-and-D wing to improve versatility
Minnesota has four All-Stars and an outstanding defender in Jaden McDaniels for their starting five. Kyle Anderson is a versatile bench forward, but not a high-volume 3-point shooter. Minnesota added Shake Milton and Troy Brown Jr. to go with Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Wendell Moore in hopes of improving their bench depth.
Minnesota could use another floor spacer and a strong defender. Dorian Finney-Smith is capable of starting or coming off the bench. He will knock down open jumpers and guard multiple positions. The Timberwolves need another player like Doe-Doe to round out their roster.
Finney-Smith has been on the block since the draft, and Brooklyn wants at least one first-round draft pick to clear their logjam. No offer has materialized, and Minnesota has no outright selections to offer. They could give them a pick swap and a second-rounder, but that may not be enough to convince the Nets.
Naz Reid cannot be traded until after Christmas, but the backup big man won’t have much of a role in Minnesota. He wants to be with the Timberwolves, but they could send him elsewhere for more playing time. The Nets’ interest in this trade will be determined by their early season success. If Brooklyn struggles, they could get creative with their roster, which may create an opportunity for Minnesota.
The Timberwolves have another hole on their roster to fill as well.