The Minnesota Timberwolves are reportedly trying to work out a possible trade with the Los Angeles Lakers for veteran small forward Luol Deng, according to Pro Basketball Talk.
The Timberwolves, desperately looking for a capable winger and a locker room leader, are eyeing the two-time All-Star, who is also a former player of current Wolves head coach Tom Thibodeau.
According to latest rumors, Thibodeau is already losing his patience with the way the Timberwolves are performing so far this season and might consider trading one of his young stars for a serviceable forward.
Ric Bucher of Bleacher Report provided some insight on the Wolves' current situation.
"Tom Thibodeau is not exactly a paragon of patience, which is why league sources expect that he is only a few more losses away from dealing one of his young stars for a veteran who can help him win now.
His first look will be for a player he already knows and trusts because he's already had that player in his system."
As what Bucher mentioned, Thibodeau will likely try to bring in a player who already knew his system, if he pursues a trade.
All-Star forward Jimmy Butler automatically emerges as the most enticing trade target because of his two-way ability, but the Bulls are unlikely to give away their best player unless the Wolves make Karl-Anthony Towns or Andrew Wiggins available for trade talks.
This only makes Deng as the most obvious target for the Wolves on the trading front. The 31-year old veteran is current struggling with his shooting, averaging 6.6 points on 32 percent clip from the field.
Nevertheless, Deng;'s perimeter defense and locker room presence would be a vital addition for a Wolves team direly needing for a leader. Minnesota has a bevy of young players to use as trade chips, including Shabazz Muhammed, Ricky Rubio and up-and-coming guard Zach Lavine.
