The Minnesota Timberwolves are coming off one of their best seasons since the days of Kevin Garnett. Yet, in a surprising move, the Timberwolves pulled off a massive trade just ahead of the 2024-2025 NBA season, sending Karl-Anthony Towns to the New York Knicks.
In return, they received Julius Randle, a former NBA Most Improved Player, and sharpshooter Donte DiVincenzo. This unexpected trade was especially surprising given Towns’ significant role in their rotation.
It’s unlikely the Timberwolves will engage in another blockbuster trade. However, with ongoing ownership disputes affecting both the Timberwolves and the WNBA’s Minnesota Lynx, anything remains possible. According to Bleacher Report, owner Glen Taylor is now in arbitration with former MLB star Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore over ownership of these franchises.
While substantial roster changes seem improbable, the unpredictable nature of the NBA leaves room for speculation. Here are three Timberwolves trade candidates as the 2024-25 season begins.
Naz Reid
Naz Reid has emerged as a standout player for the Timberwolves, fresh off a season where he earned the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award. Reid has become a crucial part of the team’s rotation, and following Towns’ exit, the Timberwolves will lean on him even more.
Although Reid is expected to play a major role, he’ll be an unrestricted free agent in the 2025 offseason. This could prompt the Timberwolves to consider gaining assets in return for the veteran big man before his potential departure. Trading Reid would require either a major fallout or a substantial offer, yet the Timberwolves’ ownership issues keep various possibilities open.
With Reid nearing free agency, there remains a chance the 6-foot-10 center could be traded.
Jaden McDaniels
Another breakout player for the Timberwolves is Jaden McDaniels, who established himself as a top-tier perimeter defender last season, earning a spot on the NBA All-Defensive Second Team. Like Reid, McDaniels is expected to be a key contributor for the Timberwolves this season, making it unlikely for him to be on the trade block.
Yet, McDaniels’ defensive prowess makes him a valuable asset that championship-contending teams would covet. His strong defensive skills could entice contenders to make offers for him.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore may want to cut costs, which could make McDaniels a potential trade candidate to help achieve those financial goals.
Rob Dillingham
Coming off a successful playoff run, the Timberwolves added Rob Dillingham to their roster. Originally drafted eighth overall in the 2024 NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs, the Timberwolves acquired the Kentucky star on draft night in exchange for picks.
Dillingham hasn’t yet made a significant impact on the team. After a mixed performance in the NBA Summer League, he has yet to see regular-season action. Though Dillingham has shown potential as a high draft pick, the Timberwolves’ depth at guard makes it difficult for him to find development opportunities.
With the Timberwolves’ roster already filled with young talent and solid guard depth, Dillingham might serve as a valuable trade asset. He could be included as a trade piece in a major deal, offering youth and potential to any team he joins.
