Minnesota Timberwolves: Why the Team Must Consider Trading Nikola Pekovic
The Minnesota Timberwolves obtained an influx of youth this offseason by dealing Kevin Love to the Cleveland Cavaliers. By mixing these exciting newcomers with the athletic players it already possessed pre-trade, Minnesota has seemingly solidified itself as a fast-paced, movement-oriented team.
When it comes to center Nikola Pekovic, however, his play style does not necessarily fit this specific identity. Consequently, it is clear the Timberwolves must consider trading him for assets.
Measuring at 6'11" and weighing 285 pounds, Pekovic represents brute strength as opposed to rapid speed. He is much more inclined to post up for buckets inside than cut towards the basket or sprint full court.
And on a squad showcasing talents such as Andrew Wiggins, Ricky Rubio and Thaddeus Young, an ability to thrive on the break and through off-ball movement will prove essential.
However, despite boasting a different offensive approach than his teammates, Pekovic would need to remain on the roster if Minnesota lacked an effective replacement. After all, it would be foolish to trade the lone player who can successfully fill center.
Fortunately for the Timberwolves, they do possess a solid substitute in the form of Gorgui Dieng.
In 2013-14—his first season in the league—Dieng made quite the impression. According to NBA.com, the Louisville product obtained 15 chances to start, and he put forth superb statistics of 12.2 points, 12.0 rebounds, 1.7 blocks and 50 percent shooting throughout the course of these 15 games.
While this is certainly a small sample size, Dieng outproduced Pek in both rebounding and rim protection (Pek posted 8.7 boards and 0.4 blocks last season, respectively).
Considering the newfound absence of Love's glass dominance as well as Minnesota's lowly 29th-place finish in paint points allowed per game last year, it is evident Dieng can aid in each of these noteworthy areas. And at 24 years of age, he boasts potential to continue improving his all-around game.
But the biggest reason he can adequately replace Pek is that he fits perfectly on the Wolves' athletic, up-and-coming roster.
Standing at 6'11", Dieng and Pekovic are similar in height. However, at 245 pounds, the 5-man is carrying significantly less body weight when he plays.
Naturally, as a result of this reality, Dieng is quicker on his feet and can move around the court with a lot more ease.
His active, reaction-based play style works fluently with Minnesota's players. Just watch his highlights and see for yourself:
Again, this may only serve as a small sample, but it is clear that Dieng understands how to place himself accordingly. He applies his high basketball IQ to move into necessary areas, and he utilizes his athleticism to take advantage of these opportunities.
In Dieng, the Wolves possess an impeccable youth who can carve himself a successful career. On a team consisting of personnel which prospers from off-ball activity and transition play, he is in the ideal situation to achieve his full potential.
This can only be attained, however, if Dieng consistently starts at center. Resultantly, trading Pekovic—who doesn't fit nearly as well—is an action Minnesota should at least consider.
Throw in the fact Pek is a reliable player who will draw serious intrigue around the league, and it's a no-brainer that the Wolves must contemplate this option.
Just because he may not jell with his current team doesn't mean he won't with another. With averages of 16.9 points, 8.7 rebounds, 53.1 percent shooting and a player efficiency rating of 20.4 over the past two seasons, Pekovic has proven himself a consistent high-level producer at the 5-spot.
Many ballclubs in the NBA would love to acquire a big man of Pek's caliber. Should Minnesota make him available, teams would almost instantaneously line up at the door.
Of course, his current contract paying him roughly $12 million annually may steer away potential suitors. But demand for dependable centers is high, and the Wolves would have choices all the same.
Back in March, Dan Feldman of NBC Sports expressed a similar sentiment:
"They must consider trading the 28-year-old Pekovic, who will have four years and $47.9 million left on his contract. He’s 17.8 points and 8.8 rebounds per game this season, a career year. He should still hold value around the league, and Minnesota could use whatever he fetches in a trade plus the possible salary savings to upgrade its roster.
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Pekovic's outstanding production is something that certainly wouldn't go overlooked in the trade market. He is arguably a top-10 center in the league today, and despite his large deal, clubs would still offer assets for his services.
Due to his different play style, the presence of a rising center and his high value around the league, the Timberwolves must explore exchanges involving Nikola Pekovic.
On Minnesota's revamped roster, the big man is simply out of place. All things considered, pulling off a deal stands as the team's smartest option moving forward.
(Unless otherwise noted, all stats are courtesy of Basketball-Reference.com)
Josh Haar is a NBA Writer for Bleacher Report. You can follow him on Twitter @JHaarNBA.
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