The NBA trade deadline is just eight days away, and if one Minnesota Timberwolves player is traded, it appears to be Rob Dillingham. Of recent reporting from Jake Fischerthis possibility seems even more likely than before.
“I’m also told that Minnesota is not as enthusiastic as advertised when it comes to parting ways with Mike Conley Jr.; there appears to be more willingness to move on from Rob Dillingham,” Fischer wrote.
The second-year guard has been out since mid-December and has struggled while playing, averaging just 3.5 points while shooting 33.1 percent from the field. However, Fischer’s reporting is notable for indicating that a Mike Conley trade is unlikely. Furthermore, Michael Scotto of HoopsHype said the Wolves aren’t interested in trading Jaden McDaniels, Naz Reid or Donte DiVincenzo unless it’s for a star.
As such, Dillingham is clearly the team’s top trade candidate. Honestly, I’d be surprised if he’s on the team after February 5.
What the Dillingham trade means for the Wolves
Now who the Timberwolves can actually trade Dillingham for is up for debate. Despite being a lottery pick in 2024, he hasn’t shown much promise, which could keep the Wolves from getting someone back with real impact. Nevertheless, the Wolves also have Terrence Shannon Jr. and seven second-round picks to trade.
A pair of second-round picks, along with the two previous first-round picks, could pique the interest of a team across the league. Tre Jones and Ayo Dosunmu of the Chicago Bulls are two trade targets I would advocate for as the Wolves have shown interest in Dosunmu. Both guards have a well-rounded skill set and are likely available for a reasonable price.
In addition, Jose Alvarado and Scotty Pippen Jr. names are what I would look at.
It’s fair to be disappointed that the Wolves seemingly don’t want to trade Conley. I certainly don’t agree with this stance, as trading him could help land a higher target like Collin Sexton. Plus, giving up your 2024 lottery pick for who you traded in is a tough pill to swallow. Regardless, Dillingham is one of the Wolves’ only logical trade candidates, and it’s clear he could benefit from a change of scenery.
In terms of who the Wolves could land, I’m actually quite optimistic about the impact of some of the cheaper targets the Wolves could land. The Wolves have a fantastic top six, they just need more depth and a better point guard.
If the Wolves make a move for someone like Jones, Dosunmu or Alvarado, they can certainly put together another deep playoff run. And if such a deal revolves around Dillingham, then it would be a no-brainer.
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