NBA Trade Deadline: Timberwolves’ PG Options After Conley Trade | Chris Paul, Ja Morant & More
- The Minnesota Timberwolves are navigating a complex trade deadline, still harboring ambitions of acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo while simultaneously addressing a weakened point guard situation following a trade that...
- Conley has since been traded again, this time to the Charlotte Hornets, where he is expected to become a buyout candidate, potentially opening the door for a return...
- However, given Conley’s performance below his career averages this season and the Timberwolves’ existing need for point guard depth, he will not be included among the most sensible...
The Minnesota Timberwolves are navigating a complex trade deadline, still harboring ambitions of acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo while simultaneously addressing a weakened point guard situation following a trade that sent Mike Conley to the Chicago Bulls to create cap space.
Conley has since been traded again, this time to the Charlotte Hornets, where he is expected to become a buyout candidate, potentially opening the door for a return to Minnesota should he become a free agent.
However, given Conley’s performance below his career averages this season and the Timberwolves’ existing need for point guard depth, he will not be included among the most sensible point guard targets for the team before the deadline.
1. Chris Paul
Chris Paul, recently traded to the Toronto Raptors, is expected to pursue a buyout and become a free agent. The Timberwolves, positioned as a championship contender, could find Paul to be a valuable addition. Paul has yet to win an NBA title, and a pairing with Minnesota could offer him that opportunity. He has been out of action since December 1, suggesting he would be fresh for a playoff push.
Acquiring Paul without surrendering any assets could be an appealing option if the Timberwolves are unable to secure a younger point guard.
2. Ja Morant
The Timberwolves are considering a trade for Ja Morant, recognizing both the potential reward and the inherent risk. A successful transition for Morant could create a formidable core alongside Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, and Naz Reid, all in their mid-20s.
With the Memphis Grizzlies seemingly entering a rebuilding phase, the cost of acquiring Morant may be lower than previously anticipated.
3. Kyrie Irving
Kyrie Irving, recovering from an ACL tear sustained in March, is another potential target. While his recovery timeline extends to March, his ball-handling skills and offensive versatility could complement Anthony Edwards effectively, similar to his successful partnership with Luka Dončić in Dallas.
The potential acquisition cost for Irving may also be reduced given Anthony Davis’s recent trade to the Washington Wizards and the Dallas Mavericks’ shift towards rebuilding around Cooper Flagg.
4. Tyus Jones
The Timberwolves have reportedly shown interest in Tyus Jones, who could provide a solid backup point guard option alongside Bones Hyland. However, his recent struggles with the Phoenix Suns and limited playing time with the Orlando Magic raise questions about his current form. He is averaging only 16 minutes per game for Orlando.
Jones could be a cost-effective acquisition, potentially regaining his previous form with consistent playing time, where he previously averaged 10 points, over five assists, and shot 41% from three-point range.
5. Lonzo Ball
Lonzo Ball, recently traded to the Utah Jazz, is also expected to pursue a buyout. Despite his struggles this season – averaging 4.6 points, 3.9 assists, and 4.0 rebounds in 21 minutes per game while shooting 30.1% overall and 27.2% from three-point range – he could provide depth, ball-handling, and defensive capabilities to the Timberwolves’ bench.
He would be a relatively inexpensive option.
As of today, February 5, 2026, the NBA trade deadline is approaching, and the Timberwolves are actively exploring options to improve their roster.
