Why This Trade Would Benefit The Minnesota Timberwolves
Whichever direction the Minnesota Timberwolves are going, it is the wrong one. They are currently 3-9 and in the basement of the Western Conference. Karl-Anthony Towns has missed time this season while Anthony Edwards has had a productive rookie season. Minnesota needs a complete overhaul of the roster and it needs to be done soon.
If they do not trade Karl-Anthony Towns, then Russell is the next best thing. Anthony Edwards is scoring 12.5 points per game in his first 12 games as a pro. He is looking like a player who could turn into a staple in Minnesota along with Towns. Russell has played for four teams in his young career. He has always been viewed as a valuable trade piece and that is what he is once again.
This is a chance for Russell to find a home in Miami prior to the NBA trade deadline, which will benefit him. It would also benefit the Wolves to get a player like Nunn to pair with Edwards in the backcourt. They would have to take on Olynyk and Igoudala but they are short-term commitments that will be off the books soon.
Minnesota could choose to ask for more picks but even one would help the direction. This would be one of many moves that the front office has to make in the upcoming years to build a winner in Minnesota.