After a lackluster Western Conference Finals, the Minnesota Timberwolves may look to move on from free agent Julius Randle. While Randle had an awesome playoffs up until the WCF, Minnesota may move on from him due to his inconsistent play and poor decision-making. Additionally, moving off Randle gives Minnesota the best chance to upgrade their roster.
One player who has been linked to the Wolves is Kevin Durant. At the deadline, Minnesota tried to trade for him. With the Phoenix Suns poised to move on from Durant this summer, the Wolves seem set to pursue him. Let's dive into the possibility of the Timberwolves landing Durant this offseason.
Durant would be a perfect fit with the Wolves
Durant is arguably the best pure scorer in NBA history, and he would fit in like a glove with the Timberwolves. As an elite three-level scorer, Durant would be able to take significant offensive pressure off Anthony Edwards and help the Wolves' offense reach a new level. The upside with an Edwards-Durant pairing would be off the charts. In addition to his elite scoring abilities, Durant is a high-IQ playmaker and smart decision-maker.
Defensively, Durant's length and versatility would perfectly fit in with Minnesota's identity. It's also worth noting that Edwards and Durant are close friends with Ant, viewing KD as a mentor. Durant would welcome teaming up with his friend and Olympic teammate, especially on a title-contending team. Despite being 36, Durant is still highly productive; this past season, he averaged 26.6 points on 52.7/43/83.9 shooting splits. Durant would give the Wolves a chance to maximize their title window within the next few years. Undoubtedly, landing Durant would boost the Wolves' title chances and overall upside.
Why a Durant-Wolves trade is possible
Many people may point to the Timberwolves' high payroll as a reason why they can't trade for Durant. However, Randle has a player option, which he is likely to decline; letting him walk would open up the possibility of a Durant trade. The Wolves package would likely center around Jaden McDaniels and Donte DiVincenzo, along with draft capital and/or young players like Rob Dillingham or Terrence Shannon Jr.
The Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs are two other teams linked to KD. However, both teams could feasibly pass on the chance to trade for him. In the scenario, the Wolves would likely be the favorites to land Durant. At face value, the Wolves' package might not seem amazing. However, at 36 years old with one year left on his contract and the Suns being nearly certain to move on from him, that could be the best they get for KD.
It's also possible Randle is involved in this deal in a sign-and-trade move where he would likely be re-routed, giving Phoenix more assets. Alternatively, Randle could land with the Suns in a sign-and-trade as the center piece of a KD deal. Ultimately, expect the Wolves to pursue a Durant trade, and the possibility of them landing him can't be ruled out.