Patrick Beverley Rumors: T-Wolves Reunion 'in the Works' After Being Traded by Lakers

Veteran point guard Patrick Beverley was traded from the Los Angeles Lakers to the Orlando Magic on Thursday, but he reportedly could be headed to a familiar destination instead.

According to Minnesota Timberwolves reporter Dane Moore, a reunion between Beverley and the Timberwolves is "is in the works" as he is expected to receive a buyout from the Magic.

However, NBA insider Marc Stein disputed the notion:

Beverley had spent the 2021-22 campaign with Minnesota and helped the team reach the playoffs for the first time since 2018. He notably provided the Timberwolves with an edge and a swagger that allowed them to be competitive against elite teams, as they pushed the second-seeded Memphis Grizzlies to six games before being eliminated in the first round of the postseason.

The 34-year-old has started all 45 of his appearances for the Lakers this year and is averaging 6.4 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.6 assists. Beverley is known as a defensive specialist who is also a strong locker room presence.

The Timberwolves rank eighth in the Western Conference with a 30-28 record. The team has been working through the absence of star forward Karl-Anthony Towns, who has been sidelined indefinitely since November because of a calf injury.

Minnesota already made a significant change at the trade deadline by sending point guard D'Angelo Russell to the Los Angeles Lakers as part of a three-team deal that also involved the Utah Jazz. The Timberwolves received guards Mike Conley and Nickeil Alexander-Walker as well as draft-pick compensation.

Reuniting with Beverley would undoubtedly shift the energy in Minnesota. The team ranks 19th in the league in scoring defense, so Beverley should be able to help improve that.

The Timberwolves will visit the Grizzlies (33-21) on Friday night.