NBA Trade Window: 3 teams that should trade for Danilo Gallinari

When Chris Paul was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder, many expected he would not play even a single game in a Thunder jersey. Now that we're past the quarter mark of the regular season, the latest buzz suggests that the franchise is willing to shell out Steven Adams, Danilo Gallinari, and Chris Paul in order to reconfigure the lineup.

And much of the interest is surrounded around the Italian power forward's probable destinations. Gallinari provides that much-needed boost for teams that are looking to make the final leap, without costing much in exchange. However, Gallinari is in the final year of his contract, something that might make teams wary of signing him.

He is averaging 17.6 points and 5.8 boards per game, on a fairly efficient 39% shooting from beyond the arc. For squads that are missing the final piece of their puzzle, Gallo presents adaptability that fits almost anywhere. On that note, let's take a look at some of the teams that can incorporate his skillset to their benefit.

#1 Portland Trail Blazers

Portland has struggled to make a mark so far

One of the reasons that make Danilo a fit for the Portland Trail Blazers is the fact that he ranks in the 93rd percentile in a set offense. And the Blazers graze the bottom of the league when it comes to finishing possessions in transitions.

In layman terms, Gallinari is at his utmost best when given the time to settle and hates to play the run-and-gun type of basketball. Falling in line, Portland's lineup ranks amongst the slowest in the NBA, almost matching the speed at which the 31-year-old likes to move. Moreover, he provides a stable production source if the Blazers would like to bring him off the bench as well.

With Portland being punished by numerous injuries to prominent names, they can take a gamble with a player like Gallinari, knowing that he might not stay for the next season.

#2 Houston Rockets

The Rockets attempt the most threes in the league

While the Houston Rockets are still trying to figure out their talents, they are down at the 5th spot with a 17-9 (0.654) win-loss record on the West standings. Attempting over 45 three-pointers per game, the team is converting on barely a third of those, placing them amongst the least efficient teams from beyond the arc.

Gallinari's efficient outside shot could pay dividends for this high-volume three shooting lineup. He is making almost 40% of his long-range attempts this year so far, which leads anyone's conversion on the entire Rockets roster (who shoots at least 5 threes a game).

Coach Mike D'Antoni's team carries a decent bunch of expendable players who can be put on the line when push comes to shove. `Clearly, the offense in Houston runs through James Harden and Gallinari can score effectively without requiring the ball at all times, which makes him a near-perfect fit for this team.

#3 Minnesota Timberwolves

Minnesota is a fringe playoff team at the moment

The Minnesota Timberwolves are currently 10th on the Western Conference standings with a sub 0.500 record next to their name. Despite possessing quality scorers in Karl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins, the collective unit is unable to come together for consistent wins.

Minnesota could certainly use a proven scorer beside its dynamic duo, in their bid to make the playoffs this year. In the process, they can let go of their latest lottery pick in Jarrett Culver as well as Gorgui Dieng’s backfiring contract.

Also, Gallinari will provide a much-needed spark to their long-range shooting, which currently is listed as the third-worst in the NBA. Averaging almost 6 defensive boards per game, Gallo's length can also help the Timberwolves secure the glass when KAT would be taking a breather. He'll provide finesse to this ill-assembled lineup and would make them surefire postseason contenders down the stretch.