After an unfortunate Western Conference Finals loss, the Minnesota Timberwolves have been looking at ways to improve their roster. They have long been linked to Kevin Durant, especially after their playoff loss. While Durant is available, acquiring him is far from a certainty. Recently, Brian Windhorst reported that the Cleveland Cavaliers might be open to trading star guard Darius Garland.
"I think there's some belief that Darius Garland might be available under the right circumstances... I think the Cavs are listening and open minded," - @WindhorstESPN.
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) June 5, 2025
Would you be open to the Cavs trading Darius Garland? pic.twitter.com/KM0eJQ7jIT
Given their need for a point guard and desire to improve the roster around Anthony Edwards, the Wolves could be in the mix for Garland. Let's further dive into Garland's fit with the Wolves.
Garland would provide much-needed shot creation and playmaking
Two of the Timberwolves' biggest problems are a lack of playmaking and shot creation next to Edwards. Minnesota's lack of playmaking was particularly problematic in the Conference Finals. Garland averaged an impressive 20.6 points, 6.7 assists, and 2.9 rebounds on 47.2/40.1/87.8 shooting splits this past season. Notably, he earned his second career All-Star selection.
Garland is a proficient three-level scorer capable of generating rim pressure and draining shots from beyond the arc. Aging veteran Mike Conley doesn't provide much rim pressure or overall scoring, and it's unclear if Rob Dillingham can play consistent minutes. Garland would be a massive upgrade given his dynamic scoring abilities.
Furthermore, Garland is one of the best passers in the league, especially in the pick-and-roll. His 30.9 assist percentage was among the highest in the league. Garland's presence would take significant pressure away from Edwards, which in turn would elevate his scoring. It would also be interesting to see how Garland would impact Julius Randle and Rudy Gobert. Ultimately, Garland would make the Wolves a more complete and talented team, boosting their title hopes.
Garland would come at a cost
The wording of Windhorst's comments is crucial. He didn't say the Cavs are actively looking to trade Garland, but rather that he could be moved under the right circumstances. Trading for Garland would likely come at the cost of All-Defensive wing Jaden McDaniels. Garland is the more talented player, but McDaniels' two-way value is undeniable, especially given the uncertain future of Nickeil Alexander-Walker. The Wolves would have to be confident that they could find a worthy wing either in the draft or free agency to replace McDaniels.
To make the contracts work, the Wolves would also have to include some combination of Donte DiVincenzo, Mike Conley, Rob Dillingham, and Terrence Shannon Jr. The offensive upside of acquiring Garland is clear, but he would also hurt their defense. Regardless, the Wolves would still have quality defensive personnel around him to make it work. Overall, the Wolves should inquire about Garland given his clear offensive fit and value, but they must ensure they don't overpay for him.