Will the Timberwolves Trade Julius Randle? NBA Trade Deadline Looms
As we approach the NBA Trade Deadline at 2 PM Central Time deadline on Thursday, the question on everyone’s mind is still: Will the Timberwolves trade Julius Randle?
The Wolves are in a unique position, sitting four games above .500 and in contention for a playoff spot, but nowhere near where expectations were coming into the season. A potential trade of Randle could shake things up and provide some much-needed clarity for the future.
One of the primary motivations for trading Randle would be to gain cost certainty for the upcoming offseason. With Randle holding a player option, the Wolves face uncertainty about their cap situation. This uncertainty could impact their ability to retain key players like Naz Reid and Nickeil Alexander-Walker, both of whom are due for significant raises.
ESPN’s Suggested Three-Team Trade Involving the Wolves
Among ESPN’s search for a Jimmy Butler trade, Andre Snellings suggested a three-team deal with between the Timberwolves, Miami Heat and Denver Nuggets (Insider required). In this hypothetical trade, the Wolves would send out Randle and receive Russell Westbrook, Duncan Robinson, and Haywood Highsmith in return. While this deal would provide the Wolves with three rotation players, it comes with its own set of challenges.
The addition of Westbrook, Robinson, and Highsmith would undoubtedly deepen the Wolves’ rotation. However, it would also create a logjam on the wing while depleting the frontcourt, which would force Jaden McDaniels to play more frequently at the four.
Timberwolves Lineup Insights
One of the most compelling arguments for moving Randle is the success of lineups featuring Rudy Gobert and Naz Reid together. These lineups have shown a significantly positive point differential, averaging +18.8 points per 100 possessions in just over 300 minutes of play. The spacing and offensive versatility provided by Reid seem to complement Gobert’s game better than Randle’s skillset.
Additionally, Rob Dillingham continues to play extremely well when on the floor at the same time as Anthony Edwards. In a limited sample size of 215 possessions, Ant + Rob lineups are 100th percentile among lineups across the league. The threat of two dangerous offensive creators has a real impact on opponent defenses.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Timberwolves’ trade deadline options, tune into the Locked On Wolves podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Wolves Podcast:
• Anthony Edwards and Rob Dillingham’s on-court chemistry
• Preview of tonight’s game against the Chicago Bulls
• Timberwolves’ struggles at home and potential solutions
