NBA Trade Rumors: Minnesota Timberwolves Inquire About O.J. Mayo

The Minnesota Timberwolves are in the basement of the Western Conference, tied with the Sacramento Kings for the embarrassing distinction of the worst record in the NBA. Clearly, the Timberwolves aren't going anywhere this season.

The Memphis Grizzlies are at least competitive; however, the Grizzlies at 14-18 will not likely compete for a playoff spot in the Western Conference this season.

Since a November 20 game against the Miami Heat, O.J. Mayo has been relegated to the position of sixth man for the Grizzlies. Consequently, Mayo has seen a strict decline in his statistics in his third season as a pro.

Mayo's field goal percentage has declined by four percent, his points per game average has dropped significantly and his rebounds and assists totals have dropped across the board. However, the statistical decline can be mostly attributed to a significant drop in minutes to under 29 minutes per game.

According to a source which spoke to CBS Sports, Mayo is "frustrated coming off the bench in Memphis and 'needs a change.'"

The Timberwolves, on the other hand, are clearly looking towards next season. Minnesota has a good young core centered around NBA rebounding leader Kevin Love and former Heat player Michael Beasley.

Love has emerged from his summer experience with Team USA as one of the premier post players in the NBA. Beasley has also improved immensely this season leading the Timberwolves in scoring with over 22 points per game.

Minnesota hopes to build on a core of Love, Beasley and rookie Wes Johnson with the addition of Mayo. The Timberwolves should welcome Ricky Rubio within a year or two, and they will also most certainly have at least one high first round draft pick.

It's tough to see right now, but the future could be promising in Minnesota.