The Minnesota Timberwolves opened the 2024-25 season with a challenging loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. Julius Randle, debuting after a trade that sent Karl-Anthony Towns to the Knicks, adds talent but brings questions about roster synergy, especially alongside Rudy Gobert and Anthony Edwards. This early adjustment period has exposed potential issues with floor spacing, given Randle’s isolation-heavy playstyle.
In their win over the Kings, Randle was in top form, scoring 33 points and hitting five of six from beyond the arc. While encouraging, maintaining this level of three-point accuracy throughout the season may be difficult, as Randle shot 31% from deep last year. This has led the Timberwolves to consider adding another reliable shooter to complement Randle’s inside game and ease the floor-spacing demands.
One possibility is a trade for Miami’s veteran forward Kevin Love, a floor-stretching big man who could fit well alongside Gobert and Randle. Love’s three-point shooting and playmaking experience could give the Wolves greater flexibility without significant financial strain, as his $4 million contract fits within their cap constraints. Miami could receive guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker in exchange, who offers potential for development under Erik Spoelstra.
Another trade option includes reacquiring Taurean Prince from the Bucks, offering Minnesota a reliable 3-and-D wing to bolster their perimeter defense and outside shooting. Prince’s versatility would allow him to seamlessly fit with stars like Edwards and Randle.
Santi Aldama from the Grizzlies could also be an ideal stretch big. Known for his versatility and defensive range, Aldama’s presence would provide the Timberwolves with the spacing needed to support Edwards and balance Gobert and Randle’s paint-heavy playstyles. This move could also future-proof Minnesota’s lineup, giving them a young, skilled player who complements their long-term plans.
As the Timberwolves explore these options, they’re positioning themselves as contenders by fortifying depth, shooting, and roster balance—key areas to support a deeper playoff run.
