Should the Timberwolves trade for Mavericks' sharpshooter?

The Minnesota Timberwolves find themselves in unfamiliar territory this season at the top of the Western Conference standings. Previous seasons have seen chaotic trade deadlines in Minnesota, including big-name, asset-grab, and salary dump trades.

However, this season is unique for the Wolves, as Tim Connelly and the front office will look to do what contenders do at the trade deadline - find marginal moves to fortify their weaknesses. Here, we'll explore whether Dallas Mavericks guard Seth Curry would make sense as a trade target for the Timberwolves at the February trade deadline.

At 33 years old, Seth Curry might not fit the typical trade deadline target in today's NBA, particularly at the point guard position. However, his age is counteracted by the appeal of a tradeable contract, a two-year deal worth $8 million. This flexibility could offer the Timberwolves options for short-term solutions while maintaining financial flexibility for the future. Especially given the uncertainty of Mike Conley's future beyond this season.

Curry has seen his minutes decline this year, the lowest in the past decade at just 13.3 minutes per contest. This can be largely attributed to the Dallas Mavericks' guard depth, featuring the usual strong performances from Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, and Tim Hardaway Jr. Not to mention Dante Exum's surprising ascendence this season.

The question arises: could Curry's diminished role with the Mavericks translate to a sneaky asset for the Timberwolves?

The Timberwolves have struggled to find consistent backup point guard play, with Shake Milton failing to fill the role effectively, and Jordan McLaughlin not consistently trusted with the responsibilities. Additionally, the team ranks 24th in 3-point field goal attempts, highlighting a need for improved shooting and spacing.

A career 43.4% 3-point shooter, Curry has continued to showcase his shooting ability beyond the arc, even in a down year, he's shooting 38.9% this season. Acquiring Curry would provide the Timberwolves with a reliable floor spacer, helping create opportunities for their big men, and enabling their wings to attack the rim. Any sort of shooting catalyst would be a huge boost to the second unit. 

The Timberwolves have struggled mightily with turnovers this season, averaging 15.4 per game – the third-worst in the league. Adding a ballhandler like Curry, especially when Mike Conley is off the floor, certainly wouldn’t hurt.

To acquire Curry, a trade package involving Troy Brown Jr., Wendell Moore Jr., and a future 2nd-round pick should be close to something the Mavericks would consider, as the deal would provide them with a versatile wing defender in Brown and address their need for additional defensive assets.

Seth Curry won’t be the flashiest name on the trade market, but contenders don’t often make flashy trades at the deadline. Curry aligns with the Timberwolves' needs for shooting, spacing, and ballhandling. Curry would be a low-risk target with the upside to elevate the Wolves’ second unit. Something crucial if this team truly wants to contend for a title.