Timberwolves predicted to land Lauri Markkanen in three-team trade proposal

The Minnesota Timberwolves are looking to rebound from another disappointing postseason exit after falling to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals.

Led by ascending superstar Anthony Edwards, the Timberwolves have enjoyed great success in recent years. The 23-year-old has proven to be one of the brightest stars in the league; however, he has been unable to get his Timberwolves to the NBA Finals.

To help the Timberwolves get over the hump, Rohan Raman of Sports Illustrated has proposed a three-team trade that would see the Timberwolves acquiring one of the best scorers in the league.

Hawks Receive: Mike Conley, 2028 1st round pick swap (via MIN)

Timberwolves Receive: Lauri Markkanen, Mo Gueye, 2025 2nd round pick, 2025 2nd round pick
Jazz Receive: Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, 2025 1st round pick (via MIN, #17)

This hypothetical deal would see the Timberwolves parting ways with several key contributors, notably sending Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo to the Jazz, while also getting off of veteran Mike Conley's contract by moving him to the Atlanta Hawks.

Lauri Markkanen, who was originally acquired by the Jazz as a part of the blockbuster trade that sent Donovan Mitchell to the Cavaliers in 2022, has blossomed into an All-Star throughout his time in Salt Lake City. Last season, he averaged 19.0 points and 5.7 rebounds on 42.3% shooting from the field.

Despite his success, the Jazz has underperformed throughout his stint with the team after finishing the 2024-25 season with a 17-65 record. Sending him Markkanen to the Timberwolves would give the Jazz the fresh start they desperately need while allowing the Timberwolves to give Edwards a secondary star to make a push to the NBA Finals.

Markkanen has his defensive limitations that have been well documented throughout his career, but his offensive versatility and floor spacing would be the ideal fit next to Edwards and Jaden McDaniels.