The NBA trade deadline is less than two weeks away and Timberwolves forward Julius Randle continues to find himself in hypothetical trade talks all over social media. Two big factors are holding Minnesota back from striking a deal before the deadline.

The NBA trade deadline is less than two weeks away and the Timberwolves face a massive decision: Keep Julius Randle or deal him. Why it matters: The clock will soon start ticking on the prime years of 23-year-old Anthony Edwards,

If Minnesota decides they’re better off without him, Bleacher Report floated a three-way trade between the Timberwolves, Chicago Bulls, and Golden State Warriors. The trade was predicated on the belief that Randle isn’t a long-term player for Minnesota and that the Timberwolves will shop for a point guard.

Will Minnesota try to trade Randle before the Feb. 6 deadline? If they do, will the decision backfire. If they don't, will they regret it?

How long will Julius Randle stay with the Minnesota Timberwolves? The three-time All-Star is averaging 18.9 points, 7.3 rebounds and 4.5 assists per

Minnesota Timberwolves veteran guard Mike Conley has seen it before. His team, still searching for their new identity in the aftermath of the Julius Randle - Karl-Anthony Towns trade, has stumbled through the first half of the season to the tune of a 23-21 start to the season.

"Rival executives believe the Timberwolves will be seeking a Julius Randle trade before the deadline for a better on-court fit alongside Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert," Sidery reported Thursday. "Randle has a $30.9 million player option for next season many around the NBA are expecting him to pick up."