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As things stand the Minnesota Timberwolves enter the new season with a solid roster, although the organization has little chance of making the postseason due to the strength and depth of the Western Conference. Excluding the Phoenix Suns and Memphis Grizzlies, every team in the West has a realistic shot at qualifying for the postseason, and the Timberwolves would like to join the contending pack.
With the outstanding Karl-Anthony Towns locked down for the foreseeable future, the Timberwolves are arguably only one significant addition away from getting back in the mix, and the front office could look to make a bold trade as the 2019-20 season advances. So, ahead of the new campaign, here we will take a look at three stars that the Timberwolves should target via trade.
#3 Chris Paul - Oklahoma City Thunder
Chris Paul still has three years remaining on what is widely regarded as one of the worst contract extensions in history. The 34-year-old is set to earn more than $120 million over the next three seasons, although Paul remains among the NBA's best point guards and would be a huge upgrade over what the Timberwolves currently have at their disposal.
The Thunder only took on Paul's deal to allow Russell Westbrook to complete a trade to his preferred destination, and the organization is believed to be actively looking to move the veteran on. Evidently, the Timberwolves would prefer to bring in a younger option to pair alongside Towns, although the team doesn't have too many desirable assets, and CP3 is among the few realistic targets that would immediately make the Wolves a better team.
#2 D'Angelo Russell - Golden State Warriors
D'Angelo Russell was among the best players available during the summer and Minnesota attempted to force through a sign-and-trade deal for Russell before he agreed to join the Golden State Warriors. The Timberwolves were reportedly confident of landing Russell, although the Warriors' surprise interest ended any hope of a deal.
Nevertheless, Russell's long-term future with Golden State is questionable with many analysts predicting that the Warriors could look to trade him ahead of the trade deadline.
At 23, Russell is a perfect candidate to develop alongside Towns, and the former Lakers man is a considerable upgrade over 31-year-old Jeff Teague. A third team may be needed to facilitate a trade, although if the Timberwolves genuinely believe they have a realistic shot at landing the All-Star, they should do everything in their power to close out a deal.
#1 Kevin Love
Kevin Love endured a disappointing 18-19 season after signing a new long-term deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers last summer, and some around the league have questioned his physical condition. However, Love only turned 31 earlier this summer, and while his contract is a big investment, he should have enough left in the tank to put up significant numbers over the next four seasons.
The Cavs have publicly maintained that they want to keep the five-time All-Star, although his presence in Cleveland only slows down their ongoing rebuild efforts, and it is likely that they will let Love go if an adequate offer comes in.
In terms of a fit in Minnesota, Love's willingness to sacrifice for his team was on show during his time with the Cavs, and the veteran would be a perfect co-star for the much younger Towns. Ultimately, Love enjoyed the best seasons of his career with the Timberwolves, and it is time to bring the forward back for the final years of his prime.
