TITLE: Trade Deadline Buzz: Thunder Seek Depth, Timberwolves Stand by McDaniels, Jazz Expected to Stay Quiet
SLUG: trade-deadline-buzz-thunder-wolves-jazz
CONTENT:
Thunder
Oklahoma City is not expected to pursue a major shake-up before the trade deadline, league sources said. The front office is viewed as more likely to make a modest move, with forward Ousmane Dieng considered the top candidate to be dealt if any action takes place.
Rylan Stiles of SI.com reported that the Thunder’s priority is frontcourt insurance, particularly while Isaiah Hartenstein’s availability fluctuates. Potential targets believed to be attainable for second-round draft picks include Kevin Love, Nick Richards, Bobby Portis, and Jock Landale. Stiles also mentioned Day’Ron Sharpe as an option because of his strong per-minute production and team-friendly contract. A larger swing for Trey Murphy III is viewed as unlikely due to the high in-season cost.
Timberwolves
Forward Jaden McDaniels continues to strengthen his standing with Minnesota, according to Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic. The 23-year-old is posting career highs in scoring, playmaking, and shooting efficiency while remaining healthy, keeping him central to the Timberwolves’ plans despite being linked to hypothetical Giannis Antetokounmpo trade scenarios.
“He’s my favorite player in the league. I love everything about Jaden,” guard Anthony Edwards said. Head coach Chris Finch praised McDaniels’s work habits as well. Any pursuit of Antetokounmpo would likely require McDaniels’s inclusion, but for now Minnesota has the version of the forward it needs.
Jazz
Utah is also expected to hold firm at the deadline, wrote Andy Larsen of The Salt Lake Tribune. All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen remains part of the franchise’s long-term plans unless a “godfather” offer emerges. Center Jusuf Nurkic’s recent play has the Jazz gauging fit rather than plotting an exit path.
Veterans such as Kevin Love and Kyle Anderson could still be moved, and Utah may use its cap flexibility to absorb unwanted contracts. Larsen listed D’Angelo Russell and Maxi Kleber among players who might be attached to draft compensation.
Source: Hoops Wire
