The NBA free agency period has calmed after several significant moves, with teams now shaping their rosters for the upcoming season. Among the talks is a speculative Rudy Gobert three-team trade that involves the Indiana Pacers, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Atlanta Hawks. This proposed deal could see Gobert, an established defensive presence, moving to the Pacers, while the Timberwolves and Hawks also reshape their rosters.
The trade scenario has Indiana receiving Gobert, along with Mouhamed Gueye and a future second-round pick, while the Timberwolves would add Obi Toppin, Benedict Mathurin, and a protected first-round pick from Indiana. Atlanta would gain Jarace Walker, a promising young player who could add depth to their rotation. This deal, although hypothetical, suggests how each team might address key needs heading into the season.
Reasons Atlanta Might Pursue This Trade
Atlanta’s roster has evolved considerably with recent free agent signings, including Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luke Kennard, as well as acquiring an unprotected first-round pick from New Orleans. The Hawks look poised to contend in a weakened Eastern Conference, yet they still require additional depth, particularly at small forward, center, or ball-handling positions.
By acquiring Jarace Walker, Atlanta would add a former lottery pick known for his energy and shooting ability, boasting a 40.4% career three-point percentage. Having had struggles with player availability, notably with Jalen Johnson missing games over consecutive seasons, the Hawks could benefit from a reliable backup to strengthen their depth.
However, the Hawks could hesitate because Gueye, who would be part of the outgoing package, has shown strong defensive skills and fits into Atlanta’s player development model through their G-League system. Walker, while energetic, remains relatively unproven at the NBA level.
Why the Pacers Could See Value in Acquiring Gobert
The Indiana Pacers faced setbacks after losing star Tyrese Haliburton to injury and deciding not to bring back Myles Turner. Despite these challenges, the Pacers could become contenders again, especially if Haliburton returns healthy for the 2026-2027 season. Bringing in Rudy Gobert would provide them with a defensive anchor for the upcoming years, aiming to maintain a playoff-caliber team while managing luxury tax concerns.
Gobert’s presence in the paint would boost Indiana’s defense immediately, potentially improving their competitiveness. The trade also includes Mouhamed Gueye and a future second-round pick, adding more assets to the Pacers’ roster-building effort.
On the downside, Gobert’s offensive limitations and age pose risks. Indiana’s previous offense benefited from Turner’s ability to shoot from long range, which Gobert does not match, signaling a tactical shift that may not suit their style as well.
What Minnesota Stands to Gain and Lose in the Trade
For Minnesota, moving Gobert could free salary cap space and open opportunities for more bench contributions. The Timberwolves would receive Obi Toppin, a forward able to add scoring depth, and Benedict Mathurin, a young talent expected to become a reliable scorer. Minnesota also gains a protected first-round pick from Indiana, offering additional future assets.
Minnesota has seen back-to-back conference finals appearances but has fallen short of reaching the NBA Finals. The team might view this trade as a way to refresh their roster and financial flexibility. Even though there are no current reports of a Gobert trade, this move could make sense if the Timberwolves doubt their championship chances in the Western Conference.
Despite these benefits, parting with Gobert would weaken their defensive core, as he has been instrumental in anchoring their defense. Toppin’s success might be tied to Indiana’s playing style, and Mathurin, while talented, remains somewhat unproven at the highest level.
Underlying Motivations for Each Team in the Proposed Swap
All three teams could address specific needs through this deal: Atlanta looks to bolster its wing depth, Indiana seeks veteran defensive stability, and Minnesota aims to balance youth and financial flexibility. Each team faces trade-offs, balancing immediate competitiveness against long-term potential and salary considerations.
Speculative Nature and Observations on the Trade Scenario
It is important to clarify that this Rudy Gobert three-team trade is a hypothetical exercise exploring possibilities rather than an expectation or recommendation for any team’s actual strategy. Such a deal highlights how teams might look to align their rosters with future objectives by exchanging established stars for promising young talent and picks.
“It should be noted that this is just a speculative and fun exercise to see what kind of moves can be made, not what I think the Hawks or any other teams should do or will do. That is all.”
—Anonymous analyst
Next Steps for Teams and What Fans Can Watch For
As the NBA offseason continues, franchises will evaluate how to improve their chances in upcoming seasons, especially those like Indiana who are rebuilding while waiting for key players’ recovery. Minnesota’s front office might decide whether to maintain their core or retool for future flexibility. Atlanta will continue to seek depth to survive a demanding Eastern Conference schedule.
The potential trade involving Rudy Gobert, Jarace Walker, Obi Toppin, and Benedict Mathurin symbolizes the complex balancing act between veteran presence, youth development, and financial strategy that NBA teams regularly face.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Can Rudy Gobert shoot 3?
A. Rudy Gobert and Julia Bonilla are no longer together. In May 2025, Gobert shared on Instagram Stories that they broke up while she is pregnant with their second child.