Minnesota Timberwolves: Ranking the trade chips heading into 2020 NBA offseason
Minnesota Timberwolves trade chip No. 2: First overall pick
In August, the Minnesota Timberwolves rose from their moderately low odds and won the 2020 NBA draft lottery for the second time in six years. The first instance, Karl-Anthony Towns, has worked out, but under a different regime, they will look to strike in a class without that bonafide top player.
From LaMelo Ball to James Wiseman, to Anthony Edwards, to someone deemed outside this group of three, the Timberwolves have options in seeking who fits best with their current roster or who is the best talent at the No. 1 overall pick; but what if they think that kind of player can be found elsewhere?
Related Story. 50 greatest players in NBA history without a championship. light
Minnesota can trade down as the Boston Celtics last did in 2017, finding assets in future drafts and a pick slightly lower in the top 10. It allows them to recoup some of what was lost in the D’Angelo Russell trade while still drafting their favorite player in this class.
The top pick can also go towards a larger package for a veteran talent. This could add another dynamic piece next to Russell and Towns and give the Timberwolves something to work with. However, without the other player assets to supplement the pick, it’s a difficult feat to pull off.
This coveted selection has options for the Timberwolves to work with, especially trading down. Perhaps they pull something off before going on the clock this fall.