Cup of Canis: A Week from the Deadline

Thought we could use a fresh thread.

We are a week away from the NBA trade deadline and by all accounts things are relatively quiet around the league. That doesn’t bode well for the Wolves, who have reportedly been very aggressive in trying to find deals. It’s unclear whether they will be able to do so, though things usually don’t get serious until the last 48 hours or so.

One name that came up in this Kevin O’Connor article in the Ringer is Aaron Gordon—he suggests that Gordon would be a good fit with the Wolves and that the Wolves actually inquired about him at some point earlier this year.

Gordon, who is under contract for two more seasons after this one for a combined $34.5 million, is not having his best season. In fact, Gordon bears some similarity in terms of career arc to Andrew Wiggins. Viewed as a player with immense potential, but has never lived up to it. Many, including O’Connor in this piece, continue to believe, and make excuses for the player based on how he’s been used (or misused) through his career.

Of course one big difference is about $10M a year in salary, but anywho...

What do you think of Gordon? What would it take to interest Orlando?

I wouldn’t object to acquiring him with the plan to play him at the power forward spot, where he seems to fit more naturally and can take better advantage of his physical gifts. I’m mildly surprised the Wolves are apparently interested given his lack of shooting ability, but their acquisitions have not really matched their preferred style of play for the most part over the last six months, so the surprise is only mild.

Meanwhile, Robert Covington remains one of the biggest names being bandied about—but I’m hoping the Wolves don’t settle for a late first round pick from a contender. I’ would rather keep him if that’s the going rate.

Anything else out there that piques your interest? Talk about it here.