To put it bluntly, Julius Randle is submarining the Minnesota Timberwolves' chances at winning this series each game. He's averaging more turnovers than assists, his physical style of play isn't working against the San Antonio Spurs' elite rim protection, and his jump shot really hasn't fallen all playoffs.
Randle is averaging 14.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, and only 1.6 assists on 36.6 percent from the field and 21.1 percent from 3-point range. He's also averaging 3.6 turnovers and 3.4 fouls to go along with it.
His defense has been fine in stretches, but on offense, he's been nowhere to be found. You can't be the second option on a team aspiring for a championship and disappear in the playoffs.
Julius Randle simply isn't an ideal fit next to Anthony Edwards
The Wolves already have one player on their team who isn't a threat on the perimeter in Rudy Gobert. But his unreal defense is enough to overcome the offensive shortcomings.
Randle can certainly make threes occasionally, but if he's settling for threes, the defense loves that. Having two people in the starting lineup who don't effectively space the floor is a detriment to Anthony Edwards' ability inside the arc.
He's also extremely ball-dominant, and in the playoffs this year, he's turned into a bit of a black hole offensively. If he isn't providing elite spacing, cutting, or quick decision-making, it's hard to see a place for him in the team's future iterations, and unfortunately, that just isn't who he is.
Undoubtedly, to maximize their title chances as Edwards enters his true prime, the Wolves must trade Randle.
Tim Connelly will certainly be looking to upgrade from Randle to an elite second option
The Timberwolves have been no strangers to being in rumors for the biggest stars in the game. They were famously finalists for Kevin Durant, and they pursued Giannis Antetokounmpo at this year's deadline as well. I would absolutely expect them to revisit Antetokounmpo, despite the high price tag. Giannis and Ant would instantly become the best duo in the NBA, pretty easily.
They'll also look into point guards as well. A guy that Edwards can share the backcourt with who can take some of the playmaking and scoring pressure off of him would make a lot of sense.
Ja Morant makes a lot of sense considering his low value. Kyrie Irving may be another option if the Mavericks are willing to play ball. In any event, this roster will likely look very different next season if the Wolves lose to the Spurs (which feels likely).
Ultimately, Anthony Edwards needs more help, and you can bet Tim Connelly will get him some.
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