The Minnesota Timberwolves had a disappointing exit in the 2022 NBA Playoffs, losing to the Memphis Grizzlies, 4-2 in the first round. While making the postseason alone is already a win for the young team, the Timberwolves blew multiple double-digit leads throughout the series that ultimately cost them.
Nonetheless, their postseason run is certainly going to benefit the Timberwolves in the long term. They should use this valuable experience to take the next step next season. They could also look to make moves this summer to improve the supporting cast surrounding Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns. Perhaps their biggest trade chip right now is D'Angelo Russell, who had an underwhelming six games versus the Grizzlies.
Here are three trades the Timberwolves must make following their first round exit against the Grizzlies.
3 Timberwolves trades after losing in first round of NBA Playoffs
3. Russell Westbrook
The Timberwolves and the Lakers could agree on a deal surrounding Russell and Westbrook. But there should be other moving parts, particularly on the part of the Timberwolves to match Westbrook's $47 million salary next season.
If there's anything we learned about the Timberwolves in their run this season, they lacked veteran leadership. Though NBA fans slandered the former MVP in his first stint with the Lakers, he could have a lot of value for an up-and-coming team like Minnesota.
If the Timberwolves don't think Russell is the right man to lead them at point guard, perhaps they would be willing to part ways with him and bring in a more seasoned veteran like Westbrook. He has a ton more playoff experience that could supplement the emergence of Edwards and Towns.
Westbrook may no longer be in his prime, but he is still capable of playing winning basketball that could help the Timberwolves get to the next level.
2. Mike Conley Jr.
If the Timberwolves want to emphasize bringing in a veteran, Conley could fit the bill. Again, the deal would be centered around Russell. To match salaries, the Timberwolves could even get a valuable 3-and-D piece in Royce O'Neal or a talented young prospect in Nickeil Alexander-Walker.
With the Utah Jazz appearing to be on the brink of implosion, Minnesota could take advantage of this by trading for some of their veterans. Conley did have a down year overall and didn't play that well in the postseason. Nonetheless, he still carries a lot of value with his veteran leadership on and off the floor.
The lefty playmaker would be perfect for the Timberwolves as someone who can settle the ship down when things are getting rough. Conley is also a reliable three-point shooter, which would space the floor better for Edwards to attack downhill.
3. Buddy Hield and Malcolm Brogdon
This deal could give the Timberwolves two good pieces to surround Edwards and Towns. In exchange, perhaps they could send over Russell, Malik Beasley, and a couple of draft picks to entice the Indiana Pacers.
Brogdon is as steady as they come and could play both guard positions. He is solid on both ends of the floor. More importantly, he isn't someone who needs the ball in his hands too much to remain effective. This would allow Edwards to continue flourishing as a creator.
Meanwhile, Hield would thrive playing next to Edwards. Ant Man's ability to draw defenders would open up more shots for Hield from long distance, where he is a career 39.8% career shooter. In the same way, Hield's ability to space the floor would allow Edwards more space to slice up the defense with his explosive driving ability.
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