The Minnesota Timberwolves are heading into the final stretch before the February 5 trade deadline with a clear plan - and more importantly, a disciplined one. They’re in the market for a point guard, but don’t expect them to swing for the fences.
The front office, led by Tim Connelly, isn’t looking to bring in a high-priced star. Instead, they’re targeting mid-tier or minimum-salaried guards who can contribute without disrupting what’s already working.
That approach makes a lot of sense when you look at the landscape. Minnesota has one of the most balanced rosters in the league right now, and their top six players - a group headlined by Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels - have formed a strong, cohesive unit.
There’s no need to break that up unless the return is a true game-changer. And based on the names being floated around, that kind of blockbuster doesn’t seem to be on the table.
With that in mind, players like Collin Sexton and Coby White emerge as the top-end targets within Minnesota’s price range. They’re not stars, but they’re capable guards who could bolster the rotation.
Then you’ve got guys like Tre Jones, Jose Alvarado, and Kris Dunn - all of whom come with smaller contracts and could be acquired without giving up a major piece. These are the types of moves that help good teams get better without mortgaging the future.
One thing is clear: the Timberwolves aren’t interested in sacrificing core players for marginal upgrades. That includes not only their top six, but also intriguing rookie Joan Beringer.
He hasn’t logged heavy minutes yet, but the upside is there, and Minnesota knows it. Beringer’s development is part of the long game, and the Wolves aren’t about to compromise that for a short-term fix.
Now, if a team like Charlotte or Chicago comes calling and asks for someone like Donte DiVincenzo in a deal for Sexton or White, the Wolves should - and likely will - walk away from the table. DiVincenzo brings a level of two-way impact that neither of those guards consistently offers.
He’s a proven playoff performer, a strong defender, and a glue guy who fits well with the Wolves' identity. Trading him for a rental just doesn’t add up.
Speaking of rentals, both Sexton and White are set to hit free agency this summer. That actually gives Minnesota a bit of leverage.
There’s no need to overpay for players who might walk in a few months. And when it comes to lower-salaried options like Alvarado or Dunn, the value proposition becomes even clearer - these are players who can contribute right now without costing a rotation piece in return.
As it stands, Edwards and McDaniels are reportedly the only players considered untouchable. That’s a smart stance.
If a true star became available - someone who could elevate the Wolves to title-contender status - then sure, you revisit that position. But for now, there’s no one on the market who fits that bill.
Trading away depth for a big name like Ja Morant, for example, would be a massive risk, especially for a team that’s already navigating a thin bench.
The most likely assets to be moved are Mike Conley’s expiring contract, along with young players like Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr. Minnesota doesn’t have a ton of draft capital to work with, but they can still toss in a pick or two to sweeten the pot if the right deal presents itself.
At first glance, that package might not seem like a blockbuster. But for the level of guard the Wolves are targeting, it could very well be enough.
The key here is fit - not just talent. Minnesota doesn’t need a star; they need a steady hand to run the second unit, someone who can keep the offense humming when Edwards sits and hold his own defensively.
It’s a calculated, measured approach - and it’s exactly what you want from a team that’s found a winning formula. The Timberwolves are trying to thread the needle: improve the roster without disrupting the chemistry that’s gotten them this far. If they can land the right guard without giving up too much, this team could take another step forward in what’s already shaping up to be a special season.