NBA Trades: 7 Karl-Anthony Towns deals the Timberwolves must consider
By Cal Durrett
NBA Trades: The Atlanta Hawks acquire Towns from the Timberwolves.
According to Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus, the Atlanta Hawks are open to moving all-star Dejounte Murray. That could open up the possibility of a Minnesota-Atlanta swap this summer. The Timberwolves are in need of an upgrade at point guard, and Murray would definitely provide that.
He is known for his defensive ability and rebounding, as well as his improved offensive output. He is among the better mid-range shooters in the NBA, allowing him to create consistently for himself. Murray is also a terrific pick-and-roll playmaker, though he also showed that he could off-ball while another star created.
That could make him a good fit for the Wolves since he would be playing alongside Edwards. Collins has been off and on the trading block for years now and could finally be moved in a deal for Towns, giving the Wolves a replacement power forward. Although he is not nearly as good and is owed an eye-popping $78.3 over the next three seasons, he can knock down threes and is a terrific athlete who found success with Murray in the pick-and-roll.
Considering his contract and that Murray is on an expiring deal, Minnesota could ask for picks as well. Atlanta traded several picks to acquire Murray, limiting their remaining assets, but they can trade the 15th pick in this year’s draft as well as a top-14 protected 2024 first-round pick from the Kings. If that were the case, then Minnesota could justify moving Towns to Atlanta.