Minnesota reshapes its roster around Anthony Edwards, opting to move Julius Randle and Terrence Shannon Jr. The Wolves target Coby White as a true secondary ball handler who can score, shoot, and relieve pressure from Ant, while Bennedict Mathurin adds athleticism, downhill scoring, and longterm upside on the wing off the bench. The added depth pieces help balance the roster like a true backup center, and power forward.

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For Indiana, the motivation is primarily financial. With Mathurin approaching a potentially expensive extension and an expiring, the Pacers avoid committing to money they may not want to carry. The same can be said for Chicago and Coby White. Both players’ contract situations also dampen their trade value, making a consolidated return in picks and flexibility more attractive (Indiana) and prioritize other (cheaper) guard talent that is on the roster (Chicago).

Minnesota takes a risk. By acquiring White and Mathurin, the Wolves are effectively betting they can negotiate longer term, team-friendly extensions ($18M - $25M). If those bets hit, Minnesota is able to keep the roster built around Ant. The salary cap is supposed to jump next season a decent amount (around $12M, and Conley's $10.7M will be off the books, and could decline Dillingham's 3rd year team option if needed, or find a trade partner for future 2nds.