The Minnesota Timberwolves have been exploring the trade market for backcourt help, and that search has led them to more than one Chicago Bulls guard.
The Timberwolves sit at 27-17 and remain one of the top teams in the Western Conference, but their guard depth behind star Anthony Edwards has been a concern all year.
While much of the focus has centered on Coby White, Minnesota has cast a wider net in their conversations with Chicago.
Minnesota's Interest Goes Beyond White
According to Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times, the Timberwolves have shown interest in multiple Bulls guards as the trade deadline approaches.
"The Sun-Times reported last month that the teams talked about a deal for White, but the Timberwolves also have inquired about Ayo Dosunmu and Tre Jones, too," Cowley wrote in his recent article about the Bulls' direction over the next three weeks.
This news suggests that Minnesota sees the Bulls as a potential one-stop shop for their backcourt needs, especially with veteran Mike Conley now 38 years old and second-year guard Rob Dillingham struggling to find minutes.
The Timberwolves have reached the Western Conference Finals in each of the last two seasons and are looking for pieces to reach the NBA Finals.
How Dosunmu and Jones Could Fit in Minnesota
Both guards would bring different skill sets to the Timberwolves, and either one could make an impact alongside Edwards.
Dosunmu is having a strong season for the Bulls (21-22), averaging 14.4 points, 3.5 assists and 2.7 rebounds while shooting 51.4 percent from the field and 44.0 percent from three.
He's on an expiring contract worth $7.5 million, making him attractive for a team like Minnesota looking to add scoring without taking on long-term salary.
His ability to play both guard spots would give the Timberwolves another floor spacer around Edwards.
Jones brings a different approach.
The former Duke standout is averaging 12.3 points, 5.7 assists and 2.8 rebounds while shooting 53.8 percent from the floor.
Jones has shown he can run an offense and take care of the ball, which Minnesota could use when Edwards needs a breather from playmaking.
His connection to Minnesota adds an interesting layer, as Jones grew up in Apple Valley.
What's Next for the Timberwolves?
The Bulls have decisions to make before the February 5th trade deadline.
Chicago will need to decide whether they want to move either player as part of their rebuild or keep them for the future.
The Timberwolves have been linked to multiple Bulls guards in recent weeks, and Minnesota clearly sees Chicago as a team that could help solve their backcourt issues.
With the deadline approaching, expect these conversations to heat up.