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The Minnesota Timberwolves took a major risk by trading Naz Reid and future draft capital for Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball — a decision that could one day play right into the Portland Trail Blazers’ hands.
While Minnesota appears to be doing everything possible to keep its star, Anthony Edwards, happy, what is to come of the superstar if his new running mate can’t help the Timberwolves evolve into serious contenders?
Edwards’ future is relevant to Portland for two primary reasons.
It’s no secret that the Blazers are actively seeking a big name. They’ve been in on Giannis Antetokounmpo and Ball before each was dealt, and now will reportedly pursue Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown.
Portland’s brass is ready to land a big name next to Deni Avdija without having to deal last season’s breakout star — but that’s what makes the Edwards situation so unique. We already know that Avdija was off-limits in trade talks involving Antetokounmpo and Brown, which makes sense.
The 25-year-old will only continue ascending at this point, and the confirmed targets — while each remains one of the best players the NBA has to offer — have likely hit their ceilings.
But I could envision a situation where GM Joe Cronin eases on the idea of dealing Avdija if it meant bringing Edwards to Rip City.
While a purely speculative idea, there’s good reason to believe Edwards’ thoughts towards his future with the Timberwolves will change if the Ball trade doesn’t warrant different results from years past.
And if Portland’s assets outside of Avdija are viewed well enough around the league for the Blazers to be in the running for two of the NBA’s biggest names, Minnesota would need to — at least — consider the idea of rebuilding around Avdija should Edwards demand out.
This entire hypothetical would likely only be a year or two out if it were to happen. Barring unforeseen circumstances such as injuries, another underwhelming year of playoff basketball in Minnesota could certainly accelerate Edwards’ potential departure.
And that’s why, for now, it may make sense for Portland to hold off on chasing a player like Brown in preparation for what stars could eventually be available.
If the Blazers are patient — and willing to deal Avdija — they could be rewarded with a spot in the Edwards sweepstakes just as the likes of Donovan Clingan, Scoot Henderson and Toumani Camara are hitting their respective primes.
Continue reading...
While Minnesota appears to be doing everything possible to keep its star, Anthony Edwards, happy, what is to come of the superstar if his new running mate can’t help the Timberwolves evolve into serious contenders?
Edwards’ future is relevant to Portland for two primary reasons.
It’s no secret that the Blazers are actively seeking a big name. They’ve been in on Giannis Antetokounmpo and Ball before each was dealt, and now will reportedly pursue Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown.
Portland’s brass is ready to land a big name next to Deni Avdija without having to deal last season’s breakout star — but that’s what makes the Edwards situation so unique. We already know that Avdija was off-limits in trade talks involving Antetokounmpo and Brown, which makes sense.
The 25-year-old will only continue ascending at this point, and the confirmed targets — while each remains one of the best players the NBA has to offer — have likely hit their ceilings.
But I could envision a situation where GM Joe Cronin eases on the idea of dealing Avdija if it meant bringing Edwards to Rip City.
While a purely speculative idea, there’s good reason to believe Edwards’ thoughts towards his future with the Timberwolves will change if the Ball trade doesn’t warrant different results from years past.
And if Portland’s assets outside of Avdija are viewed well enough around the league for the Blazers to be in the running for two of the NBA’s biggest names, Minnesota would need to — at least — consider the idea of rebuilding around Avdija should Edwards demand out.
This entire hypothetical would likely only be a year or two out if it were to happen. Barring unforeseen circumstances such as injuries, another underwhelming year of playoff basketball in Minnesota could certainly accelerate Edwards’ potential departure.
And that’s why, for now, it may make sense for Portland to hold off on chasing a player like Brown in preparation for what stars could eventually be available.
If the Blazers are patient — and willing to deal Avdija — they could be rewarded with a spot in the Edwards sweepstakes just as the likes of Donovan Clingan, Scoot Henderson and Toumani Camara are hitting their respective primes.
Continue reading...
