As the NBA trade deadline approaches next month, the Minnesota Timberwolves will need to be active if they want to compete in a top-tier Western Conference.

A trade suggested by Bleacher Report would see the Wolves trade Julius Randle to the San Antonio Spurs for guard Tre Jones, forward Keldon Johnson and guard Malaki Branham. A Timberwolves fan reacted with great joy to this trade idea, posting on X: “This trade would move mountains.”

There have been trade rumors involving three different Wolves players throughout the season: Randle, Donte DiVincenzo and Rudy Gobert. Most of the trade talk between Randle and DiVincenzo began with Karl-Anthony Towns’ MVP-caliber start to the season. Meanwhile, both Wolves acquisitions struggled to fit in with the rest of the squad. Gobert’s trade rumors were short-lived and were brought up by former NBA champion Kevin Garnett.

Since then, DiVincenzo has finally found his role in the starting lineup and Gobert has returned to form as the reigning Defensive Player of the Year. Randle is still having trouble fitting into the team. If the Wolves don’t see a future with Randle, it’s time to move on before the deadline. They need help from the wing and defense.

This trade gives the Wolves a lot more versatility in their rotation. The addition of Johnson (12.5 points) gives them much-needed scoring help on the wing. He also has the potential to play some power forward with the second unit alongside center Naz Reid. Not to mention, the addition of Jones gives Minnesota additional help at the point guard position.

For the Spurs they are gaining a talented power forward in Randle, who will act alongside superstar Victor Wembanyama in their frontcourt. It’s a trade that gives the Wolves more depth on their bench while San Antonio helps their young star divert attention on offense. A great offer that benefits both organizations.

The Spurs are just a few games away from the Western Conference playoffs. With both them and Minnesota in the midst of the playoff chase, agreeing to a move to another team trying to secure a playoff spot would be risky. But this trade benefits both teams more for now than the future.

MORE WOLVES NEWS: The Timberwolves’ proposed trade sends Julius Randle to the Kings in exchange for a $163 million All-Star