NBA Trade Watch: Jeff Teague likely to be traded by Minnesota Timberwolves ahead of the trade deadline

What's the rumor?

The Minnesota Timberwolves have started the 2019-20 season with a better than expected 8-7 record, and the team is likely to be active in the trade market in the weeks ahead. Obtaining a new point guard is believed to be a priority, and Hoops Rumors is reporting that Jeff Teague is likely to be used to facilitate a trade ahead of the trade deadline:

Speaking of the Timberwolves, they’ve made it clear that they’re seeking a long-term answer at the point guard spot, which doesn’t bode well for Teague’s long-term future in Minnesota... His $19MM expiring contract would make him an ideal salary-matching piece if Rosas gets aggressive at this season’s trade deadline.

In case you didn't know...

After impressing during the 2016-17 season with the Indiana Pacers, the Timberwolves signed Teague to a three-year, $57 million contract back in the summer of 2017. Teague has been a regular starter during his time in Minnesota, although the 31-year-old has drawn some criticism for his performances, and much of the Wolves fanbase wanted to see him replaced in the starting lineup by Derrick Rose last season.

Rose left for the Pistons during the offseason, although Teague's minutes have dropped to 28.4 per contest, and the guard is also shooting just 27.6% from beyond the arc. Despite his struggles from three-point range, Teague has still been able to average 13.7 points while also contributing 7.6 assists per game.

The heart of the matter

Teague remains a solid performer, although it is evident that the Timberwolves need a younger and more dynamic point guard if they are to compete in a crowded Western Conference. The team has been strongly linked with D'Angelo Russell, although a deal will be difficult to pull off due to the finances involved.

What's next?

The Timberwolves will be looking to get back to winning ways as they take on the Phoenix Suns on Saturday.