The Minnesota Timberwolves are rumored to have interest in trading for Luol Deng, and while there are no indications the Los Angeles Lakers would let go of the veteran small forward, enticing offers should convince the Purple and Gold otherwise.
The Lakers do not seem they need to make changes in their lineup, considering their surprisingly strong start to the season. Despite lacking a star-power in their core, the Lakers are poised to contend for a playoff spot, currently sitting at No. 8 in the Western Conference.
With the current trend of the team, it is safe to say no trade is imminent for the Lakers even for the Nick Young, who has been one of the most consistent players of LA this season. But would the Lakers consider making changes, with the Timberwolves reportedly intrigued of Luol Deng, whom the Lakers signed this past summer?
According to Ric Bucher of Bleacher Report, sources around the league believe that Timberwolves head coach Tom Thibodeau is growing impatient with his team's slow start, and may consider trading a young piece to bring in a veteran who can help Minnesota. Among those included in Bucher's claims is Deng, who played for Thibs during their times together in Chicago.
Deng played three full seasons for the Bulls under the helms of Thibodeau. During Deng's time playing under Thibs, the 31-year-old forward averaged over 16 points a game, while shooting 43 percent from the field. Deng also helped the Bulls reach the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2010-2011 season, along with a healthy Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah.
Adding Deng to the Timberwolves' lineup would do wonders for Thibodeau, as well as the growth of the team's core of young talents. Currently, Minnesota has plenty of pieces at the wing, but only Andrew Wiggins makes a solid impact for the team. Deng would add depth at the small forward position, giving the Timberwolves a veteran wing off the bench.
It is unclear whether the Timberwolves already have a package for Deng, but the Lakers could capitalize at the opportunity. According to Bucher, a young piece could be on the mix if Minnesota pursues a deal for any of the mentioned veterans. If the Lakers would entertain trade deals for Deng, Los Angeles could ask for a defensive wing and center in return to help the team shore up their interior defense.
The Lakers are allowing a league-high 49.9 points in the paint, which has been exploited by All-Star caliber wings. Improving their perimeter defense and rim-protection should help the Lakers win more games even if they lose an aging player like Deng in the process. Acquiring Shabazz Muhammad and Gorgui Dieng could be a viable option for the Lakers, although it remains to be seen whether the Timberwolves would let go of the mentioned trade chips.
Deng has yet to make an impact for the Lakers this season, only posting averages of 6.6 points, while playing 24.6 minutes a game. The Lakers could consider making him available before the deadline, but only if teams like the Timberwolves offer enticing packages.
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