Why The New Orleans Pelicans Do The Deal?

In fairness to Towns, the situation around him has changed. He was the unquestioned alpha of this team. Now, he’s a second fiddle. Since Anthony Edwards arrived in Minnesota, the Wolves have been his team.

With that in mind, Towns wouldn’t be taking over the Pelicans either. On the other hand, he would be forming a bonafide superteam.

Towns, Williamson, and Brandon Ingram would likely be the most talented offensive frontcourt in the NBA. This team would be a headache to guard. Moreover, the Pelicans would have a variety of quality role players around them. They’ll need to bolster their backcourt depth after making this deal, but they’ll also have the assets to make that happen. If they want to take a risk, adding Towns would increase their ceiling even if it lowers their floor.

Why The Minnesota Timberwolves Do The Deal?

The Wolves’ defense has been a tremendous surprise this year. On some level, they’ll hope that this deal offers them some addition by subtraction. By pairing Gobert and McDaniels in the frontcourt on a full-time basis, they should be able to maintain some of the best stopping power in the league.

Of course, they’re also simply making an addition here. McCollum is an interesting fit. He could be a super sixth man behind Edwards and Mike Conley.

Alternatively, the Wolves could have him run point. Either way, McCollum is a productive player who will offset the loss of Towns offensively. He’s also older than Towns – and when both are at their best, Towns is the more productive player. That’s why the Wolves are also landing a pair of first-round picks here. They may just establish a defensive identity in the process.