The Minnesota Timberwolves are reportedly looking for frontcourt help, but any potential deal could be at the expense of rookie point guard Kris Dunn.
Ric Bucher of Bleacher Report recently reported about Timberwolves head coach Tom Thibodeau growing impatient with his team, who currently sits at No. 13 in the Western Conference with a record of 8-19. Now, it seems there is truth to Bucher's claims, with ESPN's Brian Windhorst claiming Minnesota is making calls around the league for frontcourt help.
It is unclear which type of players the Timberwolves have in mind, as well as the possible pieces involved, but considering the team's rich possession of young talents, Minnesota is expected to become major players in the trade market. However, any potential deal could be at the expense of Kris Dunn, according to Justin Rowan of Hoops Habit.
"Their willingness to part with Dunn, on the other hand, could provide them with a solid return if the price is right," Rowan wrote. "The ideal return would net them a stretch 4 that can provide defense."
Dunn, who is averaging 4.2 points and 2.6 assists on a little over 17 minutes of action per game, has yet to make an impact playing for the Wolves, but the fifth overall pick has all the tools to strive in the league. The Philadelphia 76ers, who are in deep need of a reliable playmaker, could be a potential trade partner for the Timberwolves.
The 76ers have plenty of frontcourt pieces to offer Minnesota, but if the Timberwolves are looking for a stretch four who can play defense, Ersan Ilyasova could be the likely trade chip.
After getting traded by the OKC Thunder to the 76ers, Ilyasova has been on an impressive run, posting 14.4 points and 6.5 rebounds per game. He is shooting a respectable 45.8 percent from the field, including 36.7 from beyond the arc, while also making good decisions on the defensive end for the 76ers.
On the other hand, Dunn would give the 76ers a young talented playmaker who could share some point guard duties with Ben Simmons. Dunn's addition may not help Philly win immediately, but he is an ideal piece to develop alongside the 76ers' core of young talents.
However, trading for Ilyasova could be a one-year rental for the Timberwolves, with the 29-year-old set to become an unrestricted free agent next year. Moreover, it is unlikely the Timberwolves trade Dunn for Ilyasova alone. If the 76ers are willing to include the likes of Jahlil Okafor or Nerlens Noel in any potential deal, it is something Minnesota should ultimately consider.
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