One of the under-the-radar players that might be dealt before the 2012 NBA trade deadline is Michael Beasley of the Minnesota Timberwolves. Beasley is a strong talent that could provide great rebounding and defense for the right team in the right rotation.
Ken Berger of CBS Sports reports that the Los Angeles Lakers might want him.
It's no secret that Minnesota is likely to trade Michael Beasley, with the most interested potential suitors being the Boston, the Lakers and Orlando. The Magic are pursuing multiple avenues in an attempt to improve the team in the hopes that a long playoff run could persuade Howard to stay. If Orlando holds off on trading Howard at the deadline, sources say Beasley could be a viable piece for the Nets to add as they try to upgrade their talent to make the team more attractive to Howard and Deron Williams.
It's hard to imagine the Timberwolves trading Beasley if they didn't get a player they covet like Pau Gasol or Andrew Bynum back. Of course it would be insane for Los Angeles to make this deal if it happens this way, but would the Lakers try and ask for another player in the deal, like Derrick Williams? Minnesota would probably need to include one or two players or draft picks for the Lakers to feel placated to give up their All-Star power forward. More likely LA would try to make the deal for a backline player like Troy Murphy and sacrifice something else beside one of their top two big men talents.
To discuss Beasley trade rumors with Laker fans, head to Silver Screen and Roll. To talk about Beasley with Timberwolves fans, hit up Canis Hoopus.