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Sports writer urges Timberwolves to target disgrunted star point guard | Sporting News

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, November 4th 2025 at 19:48 GMT by Sporting News

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Minnesota Timberwolves’ Point‑Guard Puzzle: Why a Disgruntled Star Might Be the Perfect Fit

The Minnesota Timberwolves find themselves at a crossroads in the backcourt, and a new voice in the media is urging the front office to seize a rare opportunity. In a recent article on Sporting News, a sports writer argues that the team should focus its trade or free‑agent efforts on a disgruntled star point guard, a move that could instantly lift the Timberwolves’ offensive spark and address lingering gaps in ball‑handling and floor leadership.

The Point‑Guard Void

Over the past two seasons, the Timberwolves have struggled to find a reliable floor general. While Anthony Edwards has been prolific on the perimeter, the team’s playmaking has often felt disjointed, especially when Karl‑Anthony Towns and the young core lack a consistent hand‑off. Injuries to Jaden McDaniels and the inconsistent minutes given to rookie guard Garrison Brooks have left the team without a stable first‑guard presence. The front office has repeatedly cited the need for an experienced point guard who can set the tempo, make precise passes, and protect the ball under pressure.

Who Is the Disgruntled Star?

The writer’s focus lands on Jordan Clarkson, the veteran guard who has recently expressed frustration with his role on the Los Angeles Lakers. Clarkson, a 7‑time NBA All‑Star and the franchise’s all‑time leader in three‑point attempts, has become a free‑agent after the Lakers decided to lean heavily on newer guards like Austin Reaves. His frustration is compounded by limited playing time in the final stretch of the season, which has led to public statements hinting at a desire for a fresh start.

Clarkson’s résumé is impressive: over 1,000 career three‑point attempts, 1,500 points in the 2021‑22 season, and a reputation as a clutch performer in crunch time. While some critics question whether a 33‑year‑old guard still possesses the athleticism needed to anchor a backcourt, others point to his superior court vision and ability to run a fast‑break offense as exactly what the Timberwolves have been missing.

Why Clarkson Could Be a Good Fit

The article breaks down Clarkson’s skill set and how it aligns with Minnesota’s current roster. He emphasizes Clarkson’s experience in handling the ball in high‑pressure situations, a trait that could help Towns and Edwards stay in rhythm during fast‑break scenarios. Additionally, Clarkson’s reputation as a solid defender on the perimeter offers the Timberwolves a dual‑role guard who can match up against both perimeter shooters and slashing forwards.

The writer also notes Clarkson’s three‑point shooting proficiency. With the Timberwolves’ offensive strategy heavily reliant on spacing, a guard who can knock down open shots from beyond the arc would stretch opposing defenses and create driving lanes for Edwards. Clarkson’s career three‑point percentage of 34% would lift the team’s overall shooting efficiency, especially during late‑game possessions.

The Trade Package

To acquire Clarkson, the writer proposes a trade package that aligns with Minnesota’s long‑term building goals. He suggests the Timberwolves could offer a mix of young talent and draft capital: Garrison Brooks, a promising rookie guard who could evolve into a backup point‑guard; a future second‑round pick; and perhaps a role player who fits a complementary skill set. The package could be sweetened with a protected first‑round pick from the Lakers, a move that would not overly strain the Timberwolves’ salary cap.

In contrast, the Lakers would receive a younger guard with upside, as well as a pick that could be used to rebuild the roster after their recent roster shake‑ups. The trade could satisfy both parties: Minnesota gains a proven point guard, while the Lakers can afford to re‑balance their guard rotation.

Other Options on the Horizon

The article also explores other potential targets, such as Kemba Walker, who recently signed with the Philadelphia 76ers after a trade from the Boston Celtics. Walker’s 30‑plus minute averages and playmaking prowess make him an attractive candidate, but his age (36) and the Timberwolves’ preference for a younger, more athletic guard might make him a less ideal fit. Additionally, the writer mentions the possibility of targeting rookie guard Coby White, who has shown flashes of potential but has yet to demonstrate consistent leadership at the professional level.

The Bigger Picture

Beyond the immediate roster improvements, the writer argues that acquiring a disgruntled star guard could signal a shift in the Timberwolves’ franchise culture. The organization has been under scrutiny for its lack of a cohesive offensive identity and has faced criticism for its inability to protect the ball and manage the tempo. A veteran point guard could bring a new level of professionalism and consistency, helping to guide the younger core and potentially catalyzing a deeper playoff run.

Furthermore, the Timberwolves’ front office has already demonstrated its willingness to make bold moves, as evidenced by the recent acquisition of D'Angelo Russell in a three‑team trade. Securing Clarkson would continue this trend of strategic acquisitions, underscoring the team's commitment to building a balanced, championship‑ready roster.

Conclusion

In the high‑stakes world of NBA roster construction, the right trade can define a franchise’s trajectory for years. The Sporting News writer’s call for the Timberwolves to target a disgruntled star point guard like Jordan Clarkson underscores the team’s pressing need for leadership, ball‑handling, and offensive efficiency. While the trade would require a carefully calibrated package, the potential upside—both on the court and in locker‑room dynamics—makes it a compelling proposition. As the Timberwolves gear up for the next season, a decisive move in the backcourt could be the catalyst that turns a solid core into a championship contender.