By: Stephen Patterson
The Minnesota Timberwolves are getting closer to finally making a deal to move Al Jefferson. Dallas has eased their stance on moving Erick Dampier's expiring contract if the Wolves also agree to take DeShawn Stevenson and Matt Carroll. The Wolves have been trying to move Jefferson for weeks now and it seems that a deal is now imminent, although their are now other teams interested in picking up Jefferson as well.
The Utah Jazz are interested in making a move for Jefferson to fill the void left by Carlos Boozer's departure and have a trade exception that could take in Jefferson's contract. This move would give the Timberwolves the chance to move that trade exception later on for a quality player and possibly an unhappy star looking to move. The move would also give the Jazz a quality big man that is capable of replacing Boozer if he can stay healthy. The only thing that may have the Jazz thinking twice about the deal is Paul Millsap, would is getting paid a lot of money to be back up for Utah. If the Jazz acquire Big Al, there is a chance they could end trading Millsap during the next year.The Cleveland Cavaliers are also apparently interested in acquiring Jefferson as well. While the talks haven't gotten serious as now, the Cavs have a trade exception from their sign-and-trade with the Heat for LeBron James. That would also allow the Wolves to trade for a veteran presence or group of players. They could also explore the option of acquiring Mo Williams or Antawn Jamison. Cleveland is in desperate need of some moves to even have a chance of making the playoffs, and Jefferson would definitely help the cause. In my opinion, the team needs to revamp a majority of their roster to have a chance to compete without LeBron James.
