MN Timberwolves Leader Opts Into Longer Deal

There was a level of uncertainty that filled Target Center at times last season. Former owner Glen Taylor called sour grapes on a deal that saw his beloved Minnesota Timberwolves franchise change hands at an old valuation.

While he did what he could to stop the transaction, NBA ownership approved Alex Rodriguez and Marco Lore as the new owners. During that time though, Timberwolves president Tim Connelly was playing a waiting game. Rather than committing to an uncertain future, he operated as a lame duck.

That uncertainty is gone, and there’s no a clear path forward for all involved.

Tim Connelly exercises Minnesota Timberwolves extension

It’s been a busy few days in the business offices across the street from Target Center. First ownership fired dozens of internal employees. Then they made a big swing and brought in a well-decorated CEO. Now Tim Connelly has cemented his desire to continue leading basketball operations.

His contract had an opt-out clause for this summer, meaning he could have exercised the option and become a free agent, making himself perhaps the most sought-after lead executive on the market. Or he could have opted out and negotiated a new contract with the Timberwolves, getting a raise after helping build a team that has reached heights this franchise has never before seen.

Instead, he is opting in on the original five-year deal he signed in 2022. That means he is under contract for two more seasons with the Wolves, team sources told The Athletic. 

The Athletic

As outlined by The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski, this shows a level of trust and loyalty from Connelly. Not only did he opt against testing the waters on the open market, but he didn’t seek an opportunity to renegotiate with Minnesota either.

Lore and Rodriguez were integral voices in the hiring of Connelly back in 2022, and they have remained steadfast in their desire to keep him. He responded in kind by sticking with the group that wrote the original contract, and he will play that out before seeking additional compensation.

Back in June, at the end of the season, Connelly seemed to make his intentions clear. “Super happy here. It’s been great, not just working with the team, but this whole community really feels like home. I think you guys are stuck with me.” There really never should have been a doubt from that point forward.

This offseason Connelly has dispersed funds towards a roster that remains relatively unchanged from a Western Conference Finals appearance last year. Naz Reid and Julius Randle are both back on new deals. A significant point guard addition wasn’t made, and Bones Hyland once again got the last roster spot.

Related: New MN Timberwolves Owners Make First Big Hire

Although the consistency could be alarming, it also speaks volumes to the expected growth and development of the team. Chris Finch is now tasked with taking Anthony Edwards to the next level. Minnesota’s superstar must bring everyone along with him.

The path ahead for Connelly and the Timberwolves

As the Timberwolves enter into a season up against salary cap implications, it will be interesting to see how Connelly can continue to make his mark. An additional talent or two to push the team into the NBA Finals at some point may be necessary.

It’s clear this working relationship between Connelly, Lore, and Rodriguez is a symbiotic one though. Ownership knew they had their guy when luring him from Denver. Connelly has produced to heights Timberwolves fans have never consistently seen.

Related: MN Timberwolves Sign Familiar Guard for Final Roster Spot

Now so close to the top, the goal remains the same. Can Connelly, this ownership group, and this team deliver the first NBA Championship to a franchise that has been seeking one since their inception in 1989. The regular season kicks off on October 22 against the Portland Trailblazers. That’s when the marathon begins.