The [Minnesota Timberwolves](/nba/team/_/name/min/minnesota-timberwolves) find themselves in an interesting position after reaching the Western Conference Finals for the second consecutive time. Although the team’s core seems solid, the management does not rule out strategic moves. Tim Connelly, president of basketball operations, expressed his satisfaction with the current team but emphasized the need to stay active and creative to aspire to the championship. “Organizations that demonstrate patience often succeed, but patience should not translate into risk aversion,” Connelly added.
Key Decisions on the Horizon
In the coming month, Connelly and his team will focus on negotiations with the agents of [Julius Randle](https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/3064514/julius-randle) and [Naz Reid](https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/4396971/naz-reid). Both players, with different styles and trajectories, must decide whether to exercise the contract option for the 2025-26 season or become free agents.Randle’s option exceeds $30 million, a deal inherited from the [New York Knicks](/nba/team/_/name/ny/new-york-knicks). Randle expressed his satisfaction with his life in Minnesota and his performance was highlighted during the first two rounds of the playoffs.
Reid, for his part, has an option of around $15 million, which could lead him to seek a more lucrative contract. Connelly was optimistic about the possibility of retaining both key players. “We are optimistic. These players play very well together,” he said.We have positive indicators that both players will be with the Wolves next season.
Tim Connelly
[Nickeil Alexander-Walker](https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/4278039/nickeil-alexander-walker), another important player in the rotation, will also be an unrestricted free agent. Keeping Alexander-Walker, Randle, and Reid without exceeding the NBA’s second salary cap limit could be a challenge.
The directive seeks to keep the team united. “The players are happy here. They love the coaching staff, their teammates, and the community,” commented Connelly, highlighting the importance of stability. The possibility of giving more prominence to rookies [Rob Dillingham](https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/4684275/rob-dillingham) and [Terrence Shannon Jr](https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/4432847/terrence-shannon-jr), as well as second-year player [Jaylen Clark](https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/4432247/jaylen-clark), is also being considered.In addition, the Wolves will have the 17th and 31st picks in the next NBA draft.
Regarding the team’s direction, Connelly extended his contract for one year, showing his commitment to the franchise. “I am very happy here. This community feels like home,” Connelly concluded.
