The Minnesota Timberwolves have made back-to-back conference finals appearances. Still, they are looking to break through and win a championship. To do this, some people believe that the Wolves will have to make another trade for a star. As a result, Julius Randle is the main trade candidate many people mention. Randle signed a contract extension in June, so he can't be moved until December.
Nevertheless, a mid-season trade centered around Randle is something multiple people have mentioned. The Wolves were linked to Kevin Durant at the beginning of the offseason. While Randle wouldn't have been included in this team, it indicates the Wolves aren't fully on board with him being Anthony Edwards' co-star.
Randle has some flaws, but the Wolves would be unwise to view him as a trade candidate. Sure, if the right trade arises involving Randle, the Wolves could move him. However, there should be no urgency or plan to trade the three-time All-Star.
The Timberwolves would be foolish to trade Randle
Randle's impact as a shot creator and playmaker next to Edwards is vital. His 4.7 assists lead the team in the regular season. Additionally, Randle averaged 21.7 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 4.9 assists in the playoffs. He took the pressure off Edwards and gave the Wolves a source of consistent offense. Randle is a bruising creator who punishes mismatches and is an elite interior scorer. He has solid outside shooting chops as well.
In the playoffs, Randle proved that he can be an elite second option, and it's possible he is the second option on a championship team. Unless someone like Jaden McDaniels takes a massive leap, Randle's abilities as a shot creator and playmaker will be essential for the Wolves. Even if the Wolves get off to a slow start, they shouldn't look to trade Randle, as we've seen the upside of him being the team's second option.
Of course, the Wolves would likely get another star, ideally a guard, in return for Randle. However, as of now, there isn't a clear target. Perhaps Trae Young or De'Aaron Fox becomes available, but I don't think that's super likely. Trading for a forward like Lauri Markkanen wouldn't be ideal given Randle's superior shot creation and playmaking. Many other forwards whom they could trade for would pose similar issues.
Another key aspect of Randle's value is his contract. The Kentucky product signed a three-year extension this summer. This is excellent value for an All-Star caliber player. If the Wolves were to trade Randle, they would likely be taking on more money and/or sacrificing depth. Even still, they might not be getting someone better than Randle in return. Unless they trade for a guard, it's unlikely the Wolves could find someone to replicate Randle's impact as a creator and playmaker.
Given what Randle has proven as a second option on an elite team, there should be no discussion of trading him unless a Godfather offer is dropped into the Wolves' laps. In fact, trading Randle could be something the Wolves would instantly regret. Overall, Randle should be viewed as a clear part of the Wolves' core for the foreseeable future.