Today (December 15) marks the unofficial start of the NBA trade season. Players who signed new contracts this offseason are now eligible to be traded. This includes 82 total players and about 17 percent of the league. It's important to note this number includes most of the players who signed new deals this offseason, but not all, as some aren't trade-eligible until a later date, most commonly January 15.
While I wouldn't expect a blockbuster trade today, it's fair to expect some sort of trade around the league. Last year, we saw Dennis Schröder be shipped off to the Los Angeles Lakers.
For the Minnesota Timberwolves, this means that Julius Randle, Bones Hyland, and Joe Ingles are now all eligible to be traded. Notably, though, Naz Reid, who also signed a new deal, isn't trade-eligible until January 15.
Despite these three players being eligible to be traded, I don't expect a move.
Julius Randle
Of the three players, Randle is by far the biggest name. Randle has been nothing short of tremendous in his second season with the Wolves. The Kentucky product is averaging 23.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 5.8 assists on 49.5/35.4/83.1 shooting splits. Randle's blend of shot creation and playmaking makes him a perfect co-star next to Anthony Edwards.
While there has been some trade buzz around Randle, I don't see a move happening unless the Wolves get a clear upgrade. Over the offseason, Randle inked a fresh three-year $100 million deal. Undoubtedly, this is great value for a player of his caliber, but it's also a large enough deal that could help the Wolves land another star.
Ultimately, though, I don't expect a move to happen, and I would advise against it.
Bones Hyland
After barely playing to start the season, Hyland has quickly become a revelation for the Wolves in the past week. The 6-foot-2 guard has started in back-to-back games with Edwards injured. Hyland has had a 14-point and an 18-point game over the past week. He has given the Wolves a much-needed spark off the bench, and his perimeter shot creation fills a massive void.
My guess is that the Wolves will see if Hyland can consistently play at a high level before assessing their need for a point guard at the deadline. I don't see Hyland as a trade candidate. Perhaps his recent play could entice a team, and he could be part of a deal where the Wolves look to upgrade their PG room.
Still, even if the Wolves look to upgrade their point guard play, they will need some depth, and Hyland has looked like the team's best PG recently.
Joe Ingles
Ingles was brought back on a one-year deal this summer. While the 38-year-old doesn't play much (aside from blowouts and the occasional inbound play), the Wolves still value his presence as a veteran leader.
As a result, it would be a shocker if they trade him. It's also worth noting that Ingles can veto any trade involving him. Even if the Wolves need some salary filler, they will find another way to make the money work. It's safe to say that Ingles will stay put.
Overall, I don't expect any of these players to be traded now or before the deadline. In general, a trade doesn't feel likely for the Wolves right now. Still, it's worth noting that some intriguing trade targets, as most notably Tre Jones, are officially available.