Just days before the start of 2024 training camp, the Minnesota Timberwolves and New York Knicks agreed to a blockbuster trade that shocked the NBA world. The Wolves shipped out Karl-Anthony Towns in exchange for Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, Keita Bates-Diop (who was let go), and a protected 2025 first-round pick via the Detroit Pistons. A year later, this trade is widely viewed as a win-win since both teams made conference finals runs. Trading KAT also allowed the Wolves to re-sign Naz Reid.
However, one of the more under-discussed aspects of this trade is the 2025 first-round pick that the Wolves got, which eventually turned into Joan Beringer. The pick was top-13 protected, and the Pistons had won just 14 games the season before. As a result, most people didn't expect the pick to convey. Regardless, the Pistons exceeded all expectations, which allowed the Wolves to get the No. 17 pick.
At 18, Beringer is a high upside center. While the trade is currently viewed as a win-win, it could ultimately look like a steal for Minnesota if Beringer reaches his ceiling.
Beringer has immense upside, and he could change how the KAT-Randle trade is remembered
Beringer may take a while to develop, and he doesn't project to be a mainstay in the Wolves' rotation as a rookie. Nevertheless, Beringer's two-way upside is undeniable, and his defense is already at an NBA level. Unquestionably, defense is the 6-foot-11 center's main selling point. Beringer uses his size and athleticism to deter shots at the rim. Notably, he averaged 2.5 blocks during NBA Summer League play and 1.5 blocks in international play.
Crucially, Beringer moves incredibly well for his size and his comfortable switching onto perimeter players. This mobility is key to Beringer's defensive upside. Offensively, he projects to be a classic rim runner, and his athleticism makes him an efficient lob threat. While he is currently raw on that end of the floor at 18, Beringer could develop and could become a star-level offensive player if he can expand his range.
Ultimately, for now, the Randle-KAT trade is a win-win. The Knicks got the better player while shoring up their center position and finding a perfect co-star next to Jalen Brunson. Minnesota saved some money for Reid while giving Anthony Edwards a high-level co-star and upgrading their bench depth. Getting some extra young talent was a hidden benefit of the trade for the Wolves.
Beringer will likely take some time to develop, but if he reaches his star-level upside, the Wolves will go down as clear winners in this trade.