14 Trades Involving Kenneth Faried and a Western Conference Team
By Tim Hart
Minnesota Timberwolves
Trade Machine Results: Nuggets +1 Wins, Timberwolves +1 Wins
The Trade Machine sees this proposition as mutually beneficial. Fans will probably agree.
Why the Timberwolves would do it:
The TImberwolves have an excess of centers. Trading away Pekovic would barely have any impact on their match-ups. Adding Faried would supply a relatively young PF capable of explosive games. His threat as a double-double producer makes him a nice addition to the team. As a team that loves to shoot, the Timberwolves could benefit greatly from Faried’s second chance opportunities.
Ricky Rubio just hasn’t performed at the level that the Timberwolves expected. For the T-wolves, trading Rubio for Nelson would essentially be a wash. In theory, Rubio should have more production left in him. But, lately, he hasn’t really done much to prove this. Rubio is their highest salaried player, so you’d expect him to be one of their top producers. But he isn’t, and the T-wolves would likely bite on this trade in a heartbeat.
Zach Lavine improved greatly in his two NBA seasons, and seems ready for the starting PG spot. Their young core is quickly gaining a following. The Timberwolves seem ready to let their young guys run the show. This trade would compliment that notion.
Why the Nuggets would do it:
Acquiring Pekovic would likely put him in their starting 5. Jokic would bump to PF, and the Nuggets would have the defensive backbone that they need. Pekovic is capable of huge double-doubles, and contributes consistently when he can avoid injury. He should be able to match Faried’s minutes and production.
His presence would increase the overall size of the Nuggets’ starting 5. This would mean harder shots for opposing teams, and more defensive rebounds for the Nuggets. Pekovic could also be a great role model for Jusuf Nukic to learn from. He would likely split the C minutes with Pekovic, and match-up with him at practices.
Ricky Rubio would be an excellent mentor for Mudiay and Murray. His passing ability is unquestioned, and this is exactly where his value comes into play. With Rubio coming off the bench, Murray would be allowed to play as a scorer. This is how he played in college, and excelled. Also, Rubio is also a solid three-point shooter. His passing and shooting abilities, and veteran status, make him ideal for the Nuggets. His salary would be going to much better use in Denver.
This trade should be considered.
Next: New Orleans Pelicans