16 Players that will likely change teams by the NBA trade deadline

O.G. Anunoby and Fred VanVleet NBA (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
O.G. Anunoby and Fred VanVleet NBA (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images) /
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D'Angelo Russell, NBA
D’Angelo Russell (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) /

7. D’Angelo Russell, Minnesota Timberwolves

Both D’Angelo Russell and the Minnesota Timberwolves have begun to improve their seasons after a slow start. Nonetheless, with Russell’s impending free agency, the Timberwolves appear doubtful to re-sign him due to cost concerns. Part of that can be chalked up to the disastrous Rudy Gobert trade, where the team overpaid for the privilege of paying him nearly $40 million a year through 2026.

Add in all-star Karl-Anthony Towns’ being owed at least $30 million per season and Anthony Edwards’ upcoming contract extension, and Russell is the financial odd man out.

However, Minnesota can’t afford to let him leave in free agency for nothing, and it seems likely that they will move him to try and get something of value for Russell. The Wolves have struggled with shot creation this season, and with point guards such as Mike Conley, Kyle Lowry, and even all-star Fred Van Vleet available, the Timberwolves will have options.

Even if Russell isn’t moved by the deadline, the Wolves could still theoretically trade him in the offseason in a sign-and-trade, but it could result in fewer assets. Ultimately, if he is traded, it will likely be before the deadline.