December 15 is the main date when players who signed new deals this offseason become trade-eligible. However, today (January 15), 11 more players became eligible to be traded ahead of the February 5 deadline. One of these players is Minnesota Timberwolves big man Naz Reid.
This doesn't mean Reid will be traded ahead of the deadline; in fact, that would surprise me significantly. Nevertheless, this is a notable tidbit of Timberwolves news.
While a Reid trade is unlikely, we could see some moves around the league happening soon, with Jonathan Kuminga being the most likely trade candidate who is now eligible to be dealt.
Naz Reid isn't a trade candidate
Reid's value as a bench scorer is immense. He is averaging 14.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.4 assists on 46.9/38.1/78.1 shooting splits. By all accounts, Reid is in the mix to win his second Sixth Man of the Year.
Ahead of the deadline, many people will mock up trades where the Wolves trade Reid for star-level guards such as Ja Morant. However, the reality is that this remains highly unlikely. Trusted NBA insider Jake Fischer has repeatedly said that the Wolves aren't interested in a trade for a high-salaried guard and have valued depth since trading away Karl-Anthony Towns.
Undoubtedly, Reid is a key part of this depth. Not to mention, the state of Minnesota would be devastated if Reid were to be traded, especially for a guard like Ja, who has so many risks.
Reid signed a five-year, $125 million deal this summer, and since he is one of the bigger contracts on the team, he'd be a trade candidate if the Wolves hope to make a big move. Regardless, as mentioned at this juncture, such a trade seems incredibly unlikely.
If the Wolves make a move at the deadline, it will either be for a mid-tier salaried player or even a minimum contract player. As of now, second-year guard Rob Dillingham appears to be the Wolves' primary trade target. A lot can change between now and the trade deadline, but I would be surprised if the Wolves make an aggressive (and risky) move that involves trading Reid or another key player.
The Wolves are currently fourth in the West with a 27-14 record and have a 7-3 record in their past 10 games. Frankly, a big-time move isn't needed, especially with the current star-level players who are available. A move to bolster their depth is all the Wolves need, and it's likely what they'll pursue at the deadline.