Timberwolves Eye Kyrie Irving as Anthony Edwards Pushes Trade

The Minnesota Timberwolves are reportedly considering a significant trade for star guard Kyrie Irving of the Dallas Mavericks, with young player Anthony Edwards advocating for the move. The Timberwolves currently face challenges at the point guard position, as veteran Mike Conley has been shifted to a bench role at the age of 38, and while Donte DiVincenzo has shown promise, he is not a traditional point guard capable of consistently managing the ball.

With speculation surrounding the potential acquisition of Ja Morant from the Memphis Grizzlies, the likelihood of that deal seems to be dwindling, as both Morant and the Grizzlies are reportedly committed to finding a resolution to their situation. In light of this, the Timberwolves are now turning their attention toward Irving, according to NBA insider Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson.

Irving’s Experience and Market Value

Irving, a former NBA champion and multiple-time finalist, could provide invaluable playoff experience to a Timberwolves team eager to make a deeper postseason run. However, he is currently recovering from ACL surgery and is 33 years old, likely affecting his market value. If the Mavericks decide to trade him, it could significantly benefit the Timberwolves in their quest for a stronger roster.

The Dallas Mavericks find themselves in a precarious position, sitting at 11th in the Western Conference with a 9-16 record. Irving has yet to play this season, and with Anthony Davis struggling with injuries, the Mavs’ chances of making the playoffs appear slim. This situation might compel the Mavericks to consider rebuilding, particularly around top draft prospect Cooper Flagg and another lottery pick in the upcoming draft.

Trade Dynamics and Insider Insights

While Irving seems like an ideal candidate for trade, the possibility of him joining the Timberwolves has faced skepticism. Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated recently stated that the Mavericks are inclined to retain Irving to maximize Flagg’s potential. His experience and leadership could prove beneficial for a young roster looking to develop.

Irving’s declining market value, stemming from his age and recent injury, suggests that the Mavericks might prefer to keep him for the long term rather than seeking a quick trade. This decision would allow them to leverage his on-court skills and veteran presence as they navigate a challenging season.

The Timberwolves are exploring their options as they seek to strengthen their roster for the current NBA season. With potential trades on the horizon, the focus will remain on whether they can secure a player with the caliber of Kyrie Irving to fill their pressing needs.