The Golden State Warriors lead the league, and there's no doubt they're a good team at the moment. That being said, even championship-contending teams make mid-season trade reinforcements.
According to US media analysis, the Golden State Warriors may have targeted Downs in the trading market and set up a perfect trading plan with Jordan Poole and James Wiseman as the main trading chips.
Golden State Warriors get: Downs
The Timberwolves won: Jordan Poole, James Wiseman, Jonathan Cumminga, Moses Moody, Kevin Rooney, 2022 first-round picks, 2022 second-round picks
The Golden State Warriors build a super team
The Golden State Warriors could greatly improve their chances of winning the championship by trading Downs. They could launch a very exaggerated starting line-up while still having some decent veterans like Otto Porter Jr. and Gary Peyton II.
In this deal, the Warriors are going to send out three lottery shows that require playing time, James Wiseman, Jonathan Cuminga and Moses Moody. None of these players are currently officially on the Warriors' rotation, and swapping them for top stars could improve the Warriors' chances of winning another championship.
Losing Jordan Poole would hurt, but it might be worth it to get a top center, and Klay Thompson will be back soon. Looney will be the payroll contract for the deal.
Towns is a great fit for the Warriors' system because he's the best No. 5 player in the league. He'll be a big help to the team, allowing the Warriors to playoff games against great big men like Jokic and Thick Brow. For Downs, this is his first time with a title-contending team, and he will cherish such an opportunity.
The Timberwolves gained young talent
The Golden State Warriors have a lot of attractive young players, and if the Timberwolves want to build a good base after trading Downs, a deal with the Warriors could be a move.
Jordan Poole will make headlines for the deal. Currently, the shooting guard averages 18.2 points, 3.2 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game, and he could become Edwards' backcourt partner in the future. While it looks like he'll squeeze out Russell's playing time, the Timberwolves may end up with a three-guard lineup or send Russell away on a separate trade to rebuild.
James Wiseman, the 2nd pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, showed a lot of potential because he was a sporty center with some shooting ability. He will get more possession in the rebuilding team and there is room for growth in his game. Jonathan Cumminga is a sporty wing player who is a great basket finisher and a great outside defender. He can also grow into a great player. Moses Moody can be a 3D wing. Looney is a veteran on this list. In this case, the draft pick will provide draft compensation to allow the trade to cross the finish line.
Overall, the Minnesota Timberwolves will get a lot of young players who can grow up with Edwards, who already looks like a future superstar. In a few years, they will grow into a strong team in the league.