10 Dream trade targets for the Timberwolves (and what'd it cost to acquire them)
By Austin McGee
2. Gary Trent Jr.
What it'd cost: Matching salary, young player, second-round draft capital
Toronto Raptors' guard Gary Trent Jr.'s value has taken a bit of a hit this season. He's averaging his lowest minutes, points, and steals per game since his sophomore season in the league.
Nevertheless, he's still a quality asset for every team in the association. Trent Jr. is a must-have high-volume, yet accurate, 3-point marksman. The former Blue Devil is draining 5.8 threes on a 42.3 percent clip, a career-high.
His defense isn't great, but he is one of the better players in the league at forcing turnovers. This year, he's only averaging 0.8 steals per game. However, in the two previous years, he averaged 1.7 and 1.6 steals per game, respectively.
In today's NBA, and especially as a reserve, quality defense is less of a requirement. As evidenced by his consistent minutes over the past six seasons, Trent Jr. is on the floor because of his offense. His shot profile is elite.
This season, the Toronto guard is emphasizing the three-ball more than ever. 56.0 percent of his looks are from beyond the arc. He's also generating more spot-up looks than ever, as 94.3 percent of triples are assisted.
Trent Jr. is shooting 46.2 percent on catch-and-shoot 3-pointers. He's a deadeye when left wide-open, knocking down 53.0 percent of those looks. Trent Jr.'s 3-point marksmanship would be a boon for the Timberwolves. The Minnesota reserves are bottom third of the league in both 3-point makes and attempts.
Luckily for the Timberwolves, the Raptors are obvious sellers. Toronto has already dealt star Pascal Siakam and more players might soon follow. For a trade to Minnesota to occur, Anderson would be included as a salary filler. Furthermore, the Raptors would likely ask for multiple draft picks and a young player such as Miller.