There's a long list of players Wolves might be interested in through a trade or free agency

June 18, 2017 at 4:47AM

RUMOR MILL ROLLING

Timberwolves President of Basketball Operations/coach Tom Thibodeau and GM Scott Layden haven't made a trade in 14 months on the job. This is the summer they need to get busy, either through a trade or free agency. Here are some names — many with big salaries — to watch that fit their needs:

Jimmy Butler, G/F, Chicago: Thibodeau's dream "get," but even if the Bulls are ready to start all over by trading their All-Star, Boston, to name one team, has more to offer.

LaMarcus Aldridge, F, San Antonio: The five-time All-Star from his Portland days wilted when he needed to carry the Spurs after Kawhi Leonard's playoff injury, but the Wolves would need him only as a third or fourth option.

Kenneth Faried, F, Denver: Very limited offensively, but an energy guy with a physical presence whom Thibodeau coached for USA Basketball.

Dwight Howard, C, Atlanta: The Wolves need defense and toughness, and he might be available basically to any team willing to absorb his $23 million salary. His contract ends in 2019 just as Karl-Anthony Towns' extension will start.

Bismack Biyombo, F, Orlando: Is it possible for the Magic's new management to have buyer's remorse over a four-year, $68 million contract its predecessor paid a shot-blocker and rebounder last year?

Iman Shumpert, G, Cleveland: Like Golden State's Andre Iguodala in free agency, can the Wolves use changes sure to come with the Warriors and Cavaliers to add a wing defender?

Jae Crowder, F, Boston: If the Celtics come out of the draft with Josh Jackson, Crowder is a determined defender who could be available.

Wes Matthews, G, Dallas, or Allen Crabbe, G, Portland: The Wolves need shooting, and the big price to pay for either overpaid player is a big salary.

Eric Bledsoe, G, Phoenix: While the Wolves want to add experience, the Suns might go younger yet if they draft Kentucky's De'Aaron Fox or another point guard with their No. 4 overall pick.

Reggie Jackson, PG, Detroit: Last February's reported Jackson-for-Ricky Rubio deal had no legs, but draft time can change things.

JERRY ZGODA

about the writer

about the writer

More from Wolves

card image

Basketball Hall of Famer Gregg Popovich is recovering from what the San Antonio Spurs described as a mild stroke, though there is no timetable for the NBA's longest-tenured coach to return to the sideline.

card image
card image