FanPost

Looking for a second team to root for this season? Here's why every Suns fan should be rooting for the Timberwolves.

USA TODAY Sports

Remember when a 2012 offseason trade that involved Hakim Warrick and Robin Lopez netted us Wesley Johnson and a future first-round pick? That was a fantastic trade for Phoenix Suns, and the future is now.

If all goes well, we could potentially have three first-round picks in June. One is our own, one is from Indiana, and one is from Minnesota. However, Minnesota's pick is protected if it falls within the 1st and 13th picks in next year's draft. But that means that if they either finish the season as the league's best lottery team, or they are able to make the playoffs, we will receive a mid first-rounder in what could potentially be one of the greatest drafts of the decade.

So, are they up for the challenge? Is this the year Minnesota makes some noise in the playoffs? Right now, ESPN has projected them to be the 8th seed in the West with a record of 40-42. That would give us the pick, but they also have plenty of competition this season.

For example, Dallas will be a threat for the 8th seed once again after adding explosive shooting guard Monta Ellis.

The Blazers may also make some noise. Lillard, Aldridge and Batum is a fine trio, plus the additions of Robin Lopez, Thomas Robinson and C.J McCollum make them even better.

Or how about the Pelicans, who now have four great young stars in Jrue Holiday, Eric Gordon, Tyreke Evansand Anthony Davis?

It will certainly be a close race. Let's just hope that Rubio, Love and Pekovic can get the job done.