NBA Trade: Warriors, Timberwolves Working On Big Deal
The Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves have discussed a trade centering around D’Angelo Russell.
Russell has been linked to the Timberwolves since this past summer.
There was some talk about Minnesota making a move for Russell to appease franchise superstar Karl-Anthony Towns, whom Russell is close friends, last year.
Unfortunately, the two organizations were unable to work out a mutually beneficial deal.
According to The Athletic NBA insider Anthony Slater, conversations carried over into this season – but ultimately the same problem presented itself.
Although the Warriors do not necessarily see Russell as a long-term fit once Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson return, they are also not willing to trade him away for nothing.
This season Russell is averaging 24 points and 6.3 assists per outing.
He has appeared in 31 games so far.
With Curry and Thompson out, he has carried most of the offensive load for Golden State.
Obviously when those guys return, that will lessen.
The big problem for Minnesota right now is that clearly the Warriors are not interested in a package consisting of Andrew Wiggins and spare parts – even if Wiggins is having a career year right now.
Until they can put together a collection of assets that the Warriors find worthy, no amount of conversation will change the fact that they will not be able to pry Russell away.
Related: Mavericks, Hornets Working On Big NBA Trade?
Charles Kruger has been credentialed to cover two Super Bowls, four NBA Finals, and one World Series. A 20-year veteran in the sports world, he has sources spanning the NBA, MLB, NFL, UFC and NASCAR. Currently residing in Los Angeles, Calif., he is Game 7’s go-to source for rumors surrounding the Lakers, Clippers and Dodgers.
