Exit Survey: 3 goals for the young-and-hungry Minnesota Timberwolves

3 goals for the young-and-hungry Minnesota Timberwolves: 1. Trade D’Angelo Russell

It seems very harsh. After all, Russell is one of their “medium 3” as we’ll coin them for now, and had plenty of moments during the year where he was extremely beneficially to have around. Averaging 18.1 points and 7.7 assists despite often being the third option offensively is not bad.

But that’s the point. Trade Russell now while he has some value, and so that the Timberwolves can put another player or two in place to turn them into contenders. Russell isn’t exactly a point guard in the classic sense and has no problem looking for his own shot when the opportunity presents itself.

Now 25, it feels like we are approaching the point where this is who he is as a player. That is somebody who can light it up and would look fantastic for a couple of years with the Washington Wizards or Sacramento Kings. But really, how far can a franchise go if he is expected to lead you into deep waters?

This is the summer to move on from Russell so that the Timberwolves can grow as a team together, and implement whoever they would get in return. Make no mistake, moving him will not be easy. This is Russell’s fourth stop in the league and the fact the Golden State Warriors (finals bound once again) spun him for Andrew Wiggins so readily should tell you all you need to know.

Still, there has to be somebody out there who would want the skillful guard. The aforementioned Kings could want to add something alongside Domantas Sabonis. Would the Magic try and pair him with Franz Wagner, Markelle Fultz, Wendell Carter Jr., and Chet Holmgren? Would the San Antonio Spurs get involved? The Timberwolves are going to be good soon, yet it feels like this is more likely to be the case if Russell is no longer on the team.