The Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves have been two teams at the top of the rumor mill this season.
The Warriors, with D’Angelo Russell, have the means to re-work some pieces and assemble a roster that could compete for years. With Steph and Klay due to return, it is unlikely that D’Lo will remain part of the Warriors’ long-term plan. Instead, you can expect them to deal him for a star-caliber wing player, one that could begin to fill the void left by Kevin Durant.
For the Timberwolves, their search for a solution at point guard has come up empty so far. And while they have a solid core in place with Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns, it’s clear that they need to make some adjustments if they want to be taken seriously in the West.
There are a number of options for both teams ahead of the deadline, but perhaps none can top what they can gain from each other.
Consider this: D’Angelo Russell and Alen Smailagic for Andrew Wiggins and a first-round pick.
As a young, sharpshooting point guard, D’Angelo checks every box for the Wolves. As an All-Star caliber player, he’d be their second-best player by far. Plus, considering the relationship he has with KAT, it would help both stars stay with the franchise long-term.
For the Warriors, they need a player that can help them win now. Wiggings, even as young as he is, can help them do that. He’s a talented scoring wing who can relieve pressure from Steph and Klay.
It’s a deal that can work for both sides, and one that may very well be explored ahead of February’s deadline.
