The Minnesota Timberwolves failed in their NBA first-round playoff series against the Memphis Grizzlies while the Phoenix Suns are tied in a 2-2 series with the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Semifinals.

If both teams fail to win an NBA title this season, it might be time for the franchises to turn things around. Would a swap of star centers benefit both teams?

Karl-Anthony Towns joining Phoenix could move the team from contenders to some favorites.

Current Suns center DeAndre Ayton is doing a lot for the best team in the league at both ends of the field. Defensively, Ayton offers elite rim protection combined with adequate foot speed to hang on with smaller games on a switch. On offense, Ayton is a solid screen, a dynamite lob threat and shows an elite touch on hook shots and mid-range looks.

LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMOURS: 3 bold signing and trade ideas involving Deandre Ayton of the Suns

Karl-Anthony Towns could bring all of that – and more for the Phoenix Suns. Towns displays all of those aforementioned skills, in addition to being one of the best big shots of all time. Towns have shot 41% from three this season, good enough for 18th in the league – the highest center by far.

A Deandre Ayton trade for Karl-Anthony Towns for Phoenix could lose some of their defensive prowess, as Ayton is extremely good at that end. But Towns brings more than enough on the attacking side to make up for that. As Chris Paul’s career draws to a close, adding a big, elite offensive player might be the best way to keep the Suns’ offensive elite alive.

The addition of DeAndre Ayton would shake things up for the Minnesota Timberwolves, who have been building around Towns for seven seasons now. It could also benefit them. Minnesota could invest in its star guards, adding a center like Ayton who could anchor its defense and provide points only when needed.

LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMOURS: 3 bold signing and trade ideas involving Deandre Ayton of the Suns

Sometimes the Timberwolves have won big games despite Towns, not because of him. A weaker use like Ayton would take fewer contacts and potentially provide a more effective attack.

Karl-Anthony Towns is the more proven of the two centers, so a deal would likely require additional assets from the Phoenix side. Phoenix could throw in a first-round pick or two or could consider cutting from its immensely deep roster and attaching a second player.

LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMOURS: 3 bold signing and trade ideas involving Deandre Ayton of the Suns

The Phoenix Suns have championship aspirations this season, while the Minnesota Timberwolves are building something new. However, this swap could help both teams achieve their respective goals. Two elite centers, two elite teams – a trade could be just what they need.