As the 2025 NBA Finals get underway this Thursday, teams are already preparing moves to reshape their rosters for the 2025-26 season. One potential trade situation involves the Minnesota Timberwolves and Toronto Raptors, with both teams seeking to bolster their lineups and change their fortunes in the coming year. Central to these developments is the focus on Anthony Edwards trade scenarios NBA offseason discussions.
The Minnesota Timberwolves impressed many by reaching the Western Conference Finals after sweeping both the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors in the first two playoff rounds. Anchored by stars Anthony Edwards, Julius Randle, and Rudy Gobert, Minnesota’s strong run ended against an ascending Oklahoma City Thunder team that secured the conference title in just five games. Meanwhile, the Toronto Raptors have struggled to regain their competitive edge, having missed the playoffs since 2022 and finishing below .500 over the past two seasons with a roster lacking depth.
According to ESPN analyst Brian Windhorst during a recent episode of The Hoops Collective, the Raptors are actively exploring significant changes to enhance their talent pool and return to relevance in the Eastern Conference.
“The Raptors are a team that is starting to make noise within the league about looking for a big fish,” Windhorst said. —Brian Windhorst, ESPN Analyst
The potential for a major transaction this offseason could benefit both teams. Toronto aims to acquire veteran leadership and scoring power, while Minnesota seeks to add offensive support alongside Edwards. A multi-team trade involving the Portland Trail Blazers and Chicago Bulls has been floated as a way to balance talent and draft assets across all parties.
Possible Trade Proposal Involving Raptors and Timberwolves
A trade concept shared by a Reddit user, Big-City-2317, outlines an opportunity for Toronto to add two-time All-NBA veteran Julius Randle to boost their roster. Randle’s experience and inside scoring would provide a valuable complement to Toronto’s core, particularly for players like Scottie Barnes to develop further.
Following Randle’s departure, Minnesota could pursue two-time All-Star Brandon Ingram from Toronto. Although Ingram was limited to only 18 games last season due to a lingering ankle injury, he remains a high-caliber scorer who could ease the offensive workload currently shouldered by Edwards.
To facilitate this exchange, the Trail Blazers and Bulls would also be involved, contributing draft picks and additional players to balance the deal for all teams.
Breakdown of Player Movement and Picks in the Proposed Trade
Raptors would receive:
- Julius Randle
- Jevon Carter
- Luka Garza
Timberwolves would receive:
- Brandon Ingram
- Deandre Ayton
- Jalen Smith
- 2025 first-round pick from Chicago
Trail Blazers would receive:
- Rudy Gobert
- 2026 first-round pick (via Chicago through Portland)
Bulls would receive:
- Naz Reid
- 2025 first-round pick (via Minnesota through Detroit)
Implications of the Trade Scenario for Each Team
This trade would provide Minnesota with a roster reset, trading established pieces like Randle and Gobert for younger players such as Ingram, Ayton, and Smith, along with valuable draft capital from Chicago and Detroit. The infusion of new talent and multiple first-round picks presents the Timberwolves with a chance to rebuild around Anthony Edwards with fresh assets.
For Toronto, acquiring Randle gives them a well-rounded veteran presence to pair with younger talents and improve their frontcourt scoring. Jevon Carter’s addition addresses the need for a savvy ball handler and defender, while Luka Garza offers added depth and size for the Raptors’ bench, which has been an area of weakness in recent seasons.
Portland reaps rewards by gaining defensive anchor Rudy Gobert and a future first-round pick, reinforcing their frontcourt and long-term planning. Chicago benefits by receiving Naz Reid and a first-round draft choice, enabling their ongoing roster flexibility and potential talent development.
This proposed trade highlights how teams are looking to realign their rosters in pursuit of both short-term success and long-term stability. With the 2025 NBA offseason fast approaching, the Anthony Edwards trade scenarios NBA offseason conversations are likely to intensify as franchises explore creative multi-team deals to improve their championship chances.