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Ball Brother Reportedly Drawing Trade Interest from Timberwolves
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- Ball Brother Reportedly Drawing Trade Interest from Timberwolves
Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Most fans wouldn't call the Minnesota Timberwolves ' season successful up to this point. At 27-23 , they rank seventh in the West and appear unlikely to revisit the Western Conference Finals.
The trade sending KAT to New York and Julius Randle to Minnesota has dampened fan enthusiasm. KAT, an All-Star starter, starkly contrasts with Randle, who's deep in trade rumors. This move has diminished the momentum from last year.
Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
Minnesota Timberwolves interested in Lonzo Ball
The Timberwolves might salvage their season with a trade. One they've been monitoring is for Lonzo Ball, per Michael Scotto of HoopsHype . Ball also interests the Grizzlies and Pistons , with eyes on a potential buyout, heading into free agency this offseason.
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The Bulls are sellers, having traded former Timberwolf Zach LaVine on Sunday. Talks about Nikola Vučević involve the Warriors and Lakers . They might also move Ball and his expiring contract before Thursday's deadline.
Related: NBA Insider Floats Realistic Julius Randle Trade Opportunity for Timberwolves
However, NBA reporter Marc Stein indicates the Bulls are not eager to trade Ball. They're also resistant to buying him out if he stays past the deadline. There's even some interest in re-signing him, which might make a trade with the Timberwolves unlikely.
Ball has slowly been returning to form since knee injuries sidelined him for the last two seasons. Over his last 11 games, he's averaging 10.5 points, 3.5 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 1.5 steals while shooting 40.3 percent from the field.
Lonzo Ball – anticipation pic.twitter.com/mhCsTJHdxZ
— Brett Usher (@UsherNBA) January 30, 2025
Why the move makes sense for the MN Timberwolves
Acquiring Lonzo Ball would alleviate some of the Minnesota Timberwolves' salary issues, but only if they can offload Randle in the deal. Ball makes $21 million this year, so the only player besides Randle they can trade to keep them under the second apron is Jaden McDaniels . Considering the Wolves just signed him to an extension, trading McDaniels is not likely.
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To prevent Randle from exercising his player option for next season, the Wolves should trade him before Thursday. The return may not be what they like, however, which could hamper them from making the move. As of Tuesday, reports indicate that Randle is staying put .
Related: Report: Keep Eye on Timberwolves, Julius Randle in Jimmy Butler Trade Talks
The Wolves eyed De'Aaron Fox before his trade to the Spurs, signaling a need for a point guard. With Conley's dip in performance and Dillingham's inexperience, adding depth could boost their playoff chances, especially if it means moving Randle.
Considering his injury history, trading for Ball might not be the Wolves' best option. He's played only half a season, starting in just eight games with an average of 21.3 minutes per game. Ball's play could ramp up significantly with the Timberwolves. His 3-and-D style would fit well next to Anthony Edwards , but his ability to stay on the court remains uncertain.
