Report: T-Wolves interested in trading for frontcourt player
By Chris Drabik
Just 25 games into the season, Minnesota could look to make a move sooner rather than later.
Following yesterday’s 99-94 victory over the Chicago Bulls, a game in which the Timberwolves were trailing by 21 points at one point, reports have surfaced that Minnesota are looking to shake up the roster.
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, the Minnesota Timberwolves are “looking to trade for a frontcourt player.”
The T-Wolves already have one of best young frontcourt players in the league in Karl-Anthony Towns. However, GM Scott Layden could seek out a big man to compliment his dynamic skill set. In a league that has been getting smaller and smaller, head coach Tom Thibodeau likes to employ two-big lineups, thanks to his 7-foot center who can handle the ball like a point guard and shoot threes like a two-guard.
Aside from Towns, production from Minnesota’s bigs has left much to be desired, as Gorgui Dieng is the only member of the frontcourt to average more than 6.7 points per game. Although Dieng provides solid interior defense, he’s limited offensively.
Minnesota attempted to bolster their frontcourt situation over the summer, adding free agent center Cole Aldrich and power forward Jordan Hill. Neither addition has been able to make an impact offensively, averaging just three points in 13 minutes per game and two points in five minutes per game, respectively.
The cupboard isn’t exactly bare for the Timberwolves, as second year power forward Nemanja Bjelica and third year big Adreian Payne have flashed potential, but Minnesota could look for someone who can help them get to the playoffs this year, while keeping their young core intact.
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Explosive power forward Kenneth Faried has recently publicized his displeasure at his lack of playing time out in Denver, and trade rumors have been swirling around 76ers PF/C Nerlens Noel since Philadelphia drafted Jahlil Okafor. Either of these two athletic big men would be fun to watch play alongside Towns, as well as Andrew Wiggins and Zach Lavine.