Minnesota has plenty of talent, and Chris Finch will be looking to completely unlock the group this season. After being bounced by the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder, the only thing remaining is for the Timberwolves to win the whole thing.

Plenty of their players rank amongst the best in the league, and ESPN highlighted a handful in the latest top 100 rankings.

Minnesota Timberwolves show prominently amongst ESPN top 100

You don’t need to have any sort of a list inform you that Anthony Edwards is among the best players in the NBA. His play speaks for itself, and he’s clearly one of the game’s superstars. He’s not along on the Minnesota roster though, and ESPN ranked multiple Timberwolves among their top 100 players for this season.

Every Timberwolves player moved up slightly except for center Rudy Gobert. That’s probably fair given his dip in points (14.0 to 12.0) and rebounds (12.9 to 10.9). After winning his fourth Defensive Player of the Year two seasons ago, he finished second last season.

Of course the most notable name on the list is Anthony Edwards and his top-ten positioning. At sixth, he’s ahead of Kevin Durant, LeBron James, and Steph Curry. The only players ahead of him are Victor Wembanyama, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Luka Doncic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Nikola Jokic.

By almost every measure, Anthony Edwards got better last season. He led the league with 320 made 3-pointers at a career-high 39.5% clip. He raised his scoring average from 26 points per game to 28. And, most importantly, he led the team back to the Western Conference finals despite the offseason trade of All-Star center Karl-Anthony Towns. But he would be the first person to tell you he came up short of his goals last season. After losing in five games to the Thunder, Edwards said “no one would work harder” than him to improve this offseason. Edwards saw firsthand how Oklahoma City was a better team, with more depth, skill and tactics that were able to take him out of games. To ascend to the heights predicted for him since his star turn with USA Basketball in 2023, Edwards will need to diversify his offensive game and elevate his teammates.

ESPN

Just how far Edwards can take his game this season remains to be seen. He’s already working on a new bag of tricks, and it will be the next step in his development that takes this team over the top.

Edwards just recently turned 24 years old and he has so much opportunity for growth still in front of him. He finished seventh in MVP voting each of the past two seasons. It would be a surprise if he doesn’t win one during his time in the league, and this season would be a great timeframe to make that happen.

The Minnesota Timberwolves kick off their regular season on Wednesday October 22nd on the road against the Portland Trailblazers. They will showcase their throwback court and uniforms for the home opener against Indiana on October 26th.

And after things quieted down between the Wolves and Durant over the past couple weeks, they quickly picked up again on Wednesday when reports broke that Minnesota was once again one of the main pursuers of KD, along with the San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets, with others also in the mix.

Confirmed: Minnesota Timberwolves want Kevin Durant badly

But on Thursday, Darren “Doogie” Wolfson (KSTP) went on the Mackey & Judd show for his regular Thursday Scoops appearance, where he noted that the Minnesota Timberwolves are more than flirting with Durant. He described it as “a love fest” and said that the Wolves are very much in on the KD bidding war.

“It’s absolutely more than a flirtation, however you want to describe it. ‘Love fest’, ‘affair’, I don’t know how you exactly want to term it, but the Wolves are very much in on Kevin Durant.”

“This morning somebody who is very plugged in whose professional livelihood is working in the game maybe not necessarily firsthand with all this stuff but has his finger on the pulse of a lot of what’s happening in the league…he texted me this morning. I will read it verbatim. ‘I’m hearing Minnesota is very much in play for Kevin Durant’.”

Darren Wolfson – Mackey & Judd (SKOR North)

Last season, Kevin Durant was his same old self, even at his ever-advancing age, averaging 26.6 points, 6 rebounds and 4.2 assists in 36.5 minutes per game. Everyone is well aware of how much Anthony Edwards looks up to Durant and how close the two became when they played together for Team USA last summer.

Related: Minnesota Timberwolves Among Teams to Deny New York Knicks

But while Doogie starts off his KD talk hot, proclaiming that the Wolves are all in on their pursuit of the 17-year veteran out of Texas, he goes on to make it clear that there is one player beyond Ant and Naz Reid who Minnesota is not willing to part with via Kevin Durant trade, in any Kevin Durant

Wolves are not interested in trading away Jaden McDaniels for KD

According to the longtime local insider, the Timberwolves have not (and will not) put the 24-year-old “Slim Reaper” Jaden McDaniels on the table in talks with the Suns. Others, including a combination of Rudy Gobert, Donte DiVincenzo, Rob Dillingham and Terrance Shannon Jr are all in the conversations.

The 2020 1st round pick out of Washington averaged 12.2 points, 5.7 rebounds and 2 assists per game in 2024-25, while asserting himself again as one of the best wing defenders in the league.

“If Rudy is the money to help make this work, I think you have to do it. Now, if you’re running the Suns front office, aren’t you asking for Terren Shannon Jr or is it Rob Dillingham going out and you’re able to keep Shannon Jr. Is that the idea?

But I have yet to hear that Jaden McDaniels is on the table [in talks with Phoenix]…if somehow Milwaukee made Giannis available, okay you put Jaden on the table. I think a lot of people understand that you’re not putting Jaden on the table in a Kevin Durant trade.

So if KD ends up in Houston or San Antonio or somewhere else, fine so be it. I’d be okay with that. I’m not giving up Jaden. More importantly, I have zero sense the Wolves would give up Jaden McDaniels.”

Darren Wolfson – Mackey & Judd (SKOR North)

People started to doubt Anthony Edwards…

Imagine that 🤣 pic.twitter.com/xTgWJQlsyQ

— Leighton Glodek (@LGlodek) January 7, 2025

Even after last night’s win, serious questions remain regarding the sustainability of this Wolves roster and whether or not a starting lineup anchored by Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle can be efficient enough to make a deep playoff run.

Can Minnesota Timberwolves improve roster before NBA Trade Deadline

And improvements before the NBA trade deadline won’t be easy to come by, given Minnesota’s current luxury tax situation. In face, according to ESPN.com insiders, the Timberwolves have zero trade candidates… besides Joe Ingles.

Minnesota Timberwolves Trade candidates: None, but watch for Joe Ingles

The Timberwolves already made their big move before the season when they sent Karl-Anthony Towns to the Knicks in the deal that brought Donte DiVincenzo and Julius Randle to Minnesota. Though that move hasn’t paid off exactly as the Timberwolves hoped, another trade isn’t likely to provide the solution.

Minnesota doesn’t even have an obvious candidate to shed salary and cut the team’s massive luxury tax bill. Ingles has played sparingly, but the veteran’s locker room presence was always more likely to pay dividends than his on-court contributions.

ESPN NBA Insiders

This article was written by multiple “ESPN insiders” (apparently) but I’d like to know who gave this insider information on the Wolves, because it feels lazy. The Minnesota Timberwolves have a variety of talent on their roster that other teams around the league would love to get their hands on.

And there are no trade restrictions on new Wolves Julius Randle or Donte DiVincenzo. Who cares that Minnesota made a splash deal in the offseason. President of basketball operations, Tim Connelly, is known as a mover and shaker. And guess what? This roster needs some moving and shaking.

So, let’s take a look at some of the top trade candidates on the Minnesota Timberwolves roster, starting with Mr. Obvious.

Julius Randle: 30-years-old (Unrestricted FA w/Player Option)

Julius Randle’s fit with the Timberwolves has not gone according to plan this season. Although he has played just 34 games in a Wolves uniform, it’s already painfully clear that this 30-year-old former Kentucky big man does not fit on the Minnesota Timberwolves roster, especially next to Anthony Edwards.

Randle is averaging 19.6 points, 6.9 rebounds and 4.5 assists, in 33.0 minutes per game. It’s his worst statistical season since 2017-18, his final season with the Los Angeles Lakers. Of course, Julius has had some bright moments as a Wolf, highlighted by his game winner against the Phoenix Suns.

Unfortunately, there have been a lot more low points, in those 35 games, than high points. And it’s not just about a long slump. He lacks effort and attention to detail on defense, something that does not at all align with the Wolves defensive identity.

Oh no Julius Randle.

There are times when falling asleep on defense is tenable, being solely responsible for covering Steph Curry off-ball is…not one of those times.pic.twitter.com/2tG04z8z7x

— Hot Hand Theory (@HotHandTheory) December 7, 2024

He’s also a ball-stopper on offense, and his presence negatively affects Minnesota’s floor spacing, which has proven to be a huge problem for Anthony Edwards. Because Randle isn’t a serious threat from 3-point land, opposing defenses are sagging into the lane in order to take away Ant’s driving lanes, forcing him to defer to less effective/talented scorers.

Related: Rob Dillingham Injury Update: Minnesota Timberwolves Top Pick Out for a While

It won’t be easy for the Minnesota Timberwolves to find a trade partner for Randle, given the luxury tax restrictions they are dealing with. But if there is one thing we have found out as sports fans in the modern internet era, it’s this: Where there is a will, there is a way. And Tim Connelly should have all the will to trade Julius Randle, in order to save what currently looks like a lost season of Anthony Edwards’ prime.

Jaden McDaniels: 24-years-old (Under Contract thru 2028-29)

Minnesota has been very patient with Jaden McDaniels. They have viewed Edwards and McDaniels as their 1-2 punch of the future for some time now. However, McDaniels is now in his fifth season, and he is averaging his lowest points per game total (9.8) since his second season.

In his third season, McDaniels averaged 12.1 points per game on elite efficiency as he shot 51.7% from the field and 39.8% from three. Last year, he had a drop off from his third season, but McDaniels was still productive. He averaged 10.5 points per game on 48.9% from the field and 33.7% from three.

Jaden McDaniels when wide open (closest defender 6+ feet away) / team-wide rank:

— 100 attempts / 3rd
— 34% FG / 2nd worst*

McDaniels when closest defender is 4-6 feet away (what the NBA calls "open"):

— 22 attempts / 7th
— 22% FG / team worst*

*min of at least 20 attempts https://t.co/f3jwvER8VU

— Charlie Walton (@CharlieWaltonMN) January 4, 2025

However, McDaniels has regressed even further this season. All of his shooting and scoring totals have dropped again. McDaniels is averaging 9.8 points per game on very poor shooting splits. He’s shooting a measly 43.6% from the floor and 31.8% from three.

Related: Timberwolves Recall Rookie Wing Hours After Demotion; Claim Another Rookie Off Waivers

It’s extremely alarming that McDaniels has regressed two years in a row, especially since he is still only 24 years old. McDaniels is elite on the defensive end, but the Timberwolves may decide they need more consistent scoring next to Edwards, and due to his regression and inefficiency on the offensive end, McDaniels could be the ideal trade candidate.

Big decisions lie ahead for Minnesota Timberwolves

Although the ESPN.com article listed no Timberwolves trade candidates, the front office may very well deem a trade necessary. We are only 34 games into the NBA season, but it currently looks like the Timberwolves made a mistake trading Karl-Anthony Towns. Of course, given their luxury tax situation, they probably didn’t have a choice.

Towns is having a career year in New York while the new look Wolves are struggling to mesh. Now the Wolves front office must decide whether they want to part with players like Randle or McDaniels, or riding out the season with the current roster and seeing if they can figure things out.

However, now there’s a sense that the 2024-25 Timberwolves need to take another step forward. If not, the decision to trade Karl-Anthony Towns for Julius Randle + Donte DiVincenzo will draw immense scrutiny, even if it may have been partially related to cleaning up the Wolves’ future cap sheet.

Now, with a new Timberwolves season upon us, it’s time to make some bold predictions for the year ahead. Can the Timberwolves take that crucial step forward? Is Anthony Edwards ready to become the face of the NBA?

Related: Bally Sports Naming Rights Sold to FanDuel – What it Means for Minnesota Sports Fans

Jaden McDaniels averages new career-high in scoring

Jaden McDaniels is both one of the most beloved members on the team and one of the most scrutinized. It wasn’t always this way; he used to simply be a fan favorite for his quiet yet aggressive demeanor, especially on defense. In just four seasons, McDaniels has developed into one of the best defenders in basketball, with the ability to guard anyone from a point guard to a power forward on any given night. It’s why he earned All-Defensive honors last season.

However, McDaniels is rarely ever under the microscope due to his defense. It’s his offense that fans want to see more of. At times, we see a silky smooth jump shot that shows shades of Kevin Durant, whereas other times he hits a cold streak so bad that we can’t help but wonder if another player wouldn’t offer more of a scoring jolt.

• Jaden McDaniels stats (2023): 10.5 PPG, 33.7% 3PT, 3.1 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Yet, if there’s one thing that you cannot knock about the 24-year-old Seatbelt, it’s that he’s a tireless worker. Now that he’s had another full summer to work on his game, we wouldn’t be shocked to see McDaniels return as a much more consistent scorer, and he could be asked to take more shots now that Karl-Anthony Towns isn’t soaking up 15.3 shots per game. In other words, don’t be surprised if McDaniels blows past his previous career-high scoring average of 12.1 PPG, set in 2022-23.

Related: Minnesota Timberwolves Reveal the Worst Official Hashtag in Social Media History

Donte DiVincenzo wins NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year

The Timberwolves already have the NBA’s reigning Sixth Man of the Year in fan favorite Naz Reid. He’s likely to see an even bigger workload with the departure of Karl-Anthony Towns, and is likely the team’s power forward of the future. But now he has another scoring stalwart coming off the bench alongside him in Donte DiVincenzo.

As great as Reid is at scoring from anywhere on the floor, DiVincenzo is a much more natural shooter with the ability to heat up like a microwave. He’s constantly working to get himself open, and having a massive shield like Rudy Gobert to set picks for him could set up a ton of open shots.

Although the Wolves plan to give Mike Conley more rest, which could lead to DiVincenzo becoming the replacement starting point guard on certain occasions, we wouldn’t be surprised to see him come close to the same 15.5 PPG scoring average from last season.

Reid averaged 13.5 PPG, 5.2 RPG, and 1.7 stocks per game (blocks + steals) to win his award. “The Big Ragu” may not come close to those rebounding or defensive stats, but if he can shoot 40% from distance again while providing more assists as a playmaker, he just might win his first Sixth Man of the Year award.

Related: When Anthony Edwards Switches to Football He’s Playing Defense

Anthony Edwards wins second NBA MVP in Timberwolves history

Right now, “The Big Ticket” is the greatest Timberwolves player in franchise history. But as crazy as it sounds, Anthony Edwards may not be that far off, even though he’s just entering his fifth season. KG didn’t win his MVP award until his ninth season, but the Timberwolves were never among the league’s elite class until, suddenly, they were.

Meanwhile, this current era of Timberwolves is already among the top championship contenders in the NBA. Some are already saying Ant is the face, or future face of the NBA, but now it’s time to prove it. We all know how confident he is, never backing down from a challenge. Yet, now that he’s gotten a taste of coming so close to the playoffs, we only expect him to come back an even better competitor.

Now that KAT isn’t around as the secondary alpha wolf of this pack, there’s absolutely no question who has the keys to the franchise. Fans knew that all along, but for Ant, it had to be a bit odd grabbing the reigns from a more experienced former No. 1 pick who’s still an All-NBA talent. But now there’s nothing holding him back. If he wants to shoot 30 times a game, he will.

Don’t be surprised if Edwards takes yet another step in his development, grabbing more rebounds and dishing more assists, all while scoring more points thanks to a more consistent shot. It’s only a matter of time before the NBA realizes the league’s best player calls Minnesota home. It might even happen later this year when Edwards wins his first of possibly many MVP awards.

Related: If the Timberwolves Win it All, Anthony Edwards Says He’s Switching Sports… Seriously

Timberwolves set new franchise record in wins

On the surface, this may seem crazy. The Timberwolves’ all-time single season wins record was set in the magical 2003-04 season that saw the team win 58 games and reach the Western Conference Finals. Flip Saunders, Kevin Garnett, Sam Cassell, and Latrell Sprewell led an All-Star cast that looked well on their way to delivering the first championship in franchise history.

Of course, injuries got in the way, and the Timberwolves regressed back to the mean later on. Meanwhile, last year’s Timberwolves often looked like they’d have a chance to beat their all-time wins mark before injuries got in the way too.

Yet, there has to be a specific reason why the Timberwolves felt trading KAT for Randle + DiVincenzo would help them take a step forward. If the trade works out the way Tim Connelly planned, it might lead to a more balanced roster overall and one that helps the team win just more than 58 games, setting a new Timberwolves record.

Related: Nepotism Will Reportedly Be on Full Display in Timberwolves vs Lakers

Minnesota Timberwolves win NBA Finals, 4-1

You didn’t think we’d be able to project the Timberwolves to take a step back, did you? Who did this team lose? Towns? Yes, he’s a fantastic scorer, but we can’t all look ourselves squarely in the mirror and not admit there were some flaws in his game too, such as his propensity to force shots, commit offensive fouls, and often disappear on defense because he’s still complaining about a missed call on the other end of the floor.

Presumably, this team will be a lot more mature as they go through another season together. While there are wily veterans such as Mike Conley, Rudy Gobert, and even Tim Connelly’s lookalike in Joe Ingles, the core of this team is still scratching the surface of their potential.

Ant, McDaniels, and Reid are all 25 years old or younger, which means they’ve yet to reach their prime. Only now, there’s been another injection of youth, and some of these young pups can really play. Josh Minott, Luka Garza, and even Rob Dillingham all look like they’re ready to contribute to a winning season. Coach Finch remains one of the best coaches in the NBA. If there’s anyone who can push all the right buttons to maximize the potential of his rotation, it’s Finchy.

The Celtics are great, but they don’t have the same hunger in their stomachs as this starving pack of Wolves. This time, when the Minnesota Timberwolves get on the big stage again, Anthony Edwards and company won’t flinch; they’ll devour every opponent in their path.

• Minnesota Timberwolves defeat Boston Celtics in NBA Finals: 4-1

Related: Has Josh Minott Forced His Way into the Minnesota Timberwolves Rotation?

Rudy Gobert, Jaden McDaniels named to NBA All-Defensive Teams

Now Rudy Gobert and Jaden McDaniels will match up against the Dallas Mavericks as recently crowned NBA All-Defensive honorees, after Gobert was named 1st Team and McDaniels was named 2nd Team on Tuesday.

The 2023-24 Kia NBA All-Defensive First Team!

Bam Adebayo
Anthony Davis
Rudy Gobert
Herbert Jones
Victor Wembanyama@Kia | #NBAAwards pic.twitter.com/6P2mEdG4te

— NBA (@NBA) May 21, 2024

When the Minnesota Timberwolves sent a massive package to the Utah Jazz in exchange for Rudy Gobert, people got nervous. Then, when last season went off the rails, there was reason to wonder if Tim Connelly made a move that set the franchise back.

But another year removed, the Wolves are in the West Finals, Anthony Edwards is the next face of the NBA. KAT is saving the team in Game 7… and now, both Rudy Gobert and Jaden McDaniels are getting their flowers.

Related: Former Timberwolves Turned Media Members Gush Over Anthony Edwards’ ‘It Factor’

Of course being named as an All-Defensive First Team player was going to happen for Gobert after being named the best defender in the NBA. What was less guaranteed is where Jaden McDaniels would finish. Grabbing second team honors, the Timberwolves’ rangy stretch forward got his due as well.

The moment Jaden found out he made 2nd Team All-Defense — informed by player development coach Moses Ehambe. pic.twitter.com/0whq02lAVc

— Alan Horton (@WolvesRadio) May 21, 2024

Rudy Gobert’s latest Defensive Player of the Year was the fourth of his career. He joined Dikembe Mutombo and Ben Wallace as the only players to accomplish that feat during their career. Another DPOY next season would put him in a league of his own.

Rudy’s defensive acumen has been on full display during the playoffs and the Minnesota Timberwolves got everything they hoped for when shipping out Walker Kessler and a bunch of other parts.

A late first-round pick by the Los Angeles Lakers, McDaniels was dealt to the Oklahoma City Thunder for Dennis Schroder before he was sent to Minnesota for something named Aleksej Pokuševski.

You can bet that both the Lakers and Thunder would much prefer to have his services at this point, and Chris Finch will be relying on him massively during the Western Conference Finals, as the primary defender against Luka Doncic.

Related: Ant Said it, but Karl-Anthony Towns Forced Charles Barkley to Bring His Ass to Minnesota

Gobert played a massive role in knocking out the Denver Nuggets working as a rover and rim defender behind Karl Anthony Towns. He kept Nikola Jokic from getting the easy baskets inside, while forcing Jamal Murray from being able to drive the line.

McDaniels found himself working against both Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon at times, and came up with a couple of key offensive performances that brought Minnesota through the round. As great as Anthony Edwards has been for the Timberwolves this season on offense, it has been their defense that was a calling card all year long.

Both Gobert and McDaniels were in the middle of that reality, and seeing each of them be honored for their efforts is an outcome Chris Finch and Micah Nori have to be proud of. But no doubt, it was Rudy who brought the Wolves current tenacity and aggressive defensive style

The talented defensive duo will look for another eight games of strong work the rest of the way, and they can then add a ring along with team honors to their individual accomplishment.

Mikal Bridges misses last-second free throws to tie game vs Timberwolves

How close are we talking? Nets guard Mikal Bridges was at the free throw line with 2 seconds remaining and a chance to tie. Fortunately, he missed the first and then purposely missed the 2nd. The Wolves got the rebound and limped out of Barclays Center with an ugly, but still official, 96-94 victory.

Mikal Bridges hits 2 CLUTCH free throws to win the game 🔥 pic.twitter.com/LI1k11oJtP

— BrickMuse (@BrickMuse) January 26, 2024

The free throws came after a tenacious Timberwolves defensive possession ended in an irresponsible Jaden McDaniels foul, which is how Bridges ended up at the line with a chance to tie the game, in the first place.

Jaden McDaniels clapping and cheering Anthony Edwards on DURING this possession was simply fantastic. pic.twitter.com/Cd3qI6Js3c

— Kyle Theige (@KyleTheige) January 26, 2024

It was Minnesota’s defensive effort that kept them (mostly) in control all night. For the second game in a row, the Wolves were able to defeat a bad team, even though they weren’t running on all cylinders offensively.

Chris Finch talked after the game about how the Wolves must fix their many issues, before the playoff run, if they want to remain a top dog in the Western Conference. Still, not all contenders have the defensive capability to win games on nights where their offense doesn’t show up. It’s the main reason why the Timberwolves have a 32-13 record, one of the best in the entire NBA.

Related: Timberwolves are Targeting Monte Morris at Trade Deadline

Jaden McDaniels knew Bridges would miss?

After the game, Jade McDaniels was asked about how he was feeling when Bridges stepped to the line with the game on his shoulders. McDaniels — who committed the foul that put Mikal at the line — said he knew the 27-year-old former Villanova star would miss. Why was Jaden so sure? “I just knew he didn’t want to win the game…”

Jaden McDaniels on Mikal Bridges missing the free throws at the end: "I knew he was going to miss. I just knew he was."

Q: Why were you so confident?
"I just knew he didn’t want to win the game and it would be my fault we lost. I knew he wasn’t going to do that to me."

— Chris Hine (@ChristopherHine) January 26, 2024

Minnesota Timberwolves vs Brooklyn Nets (the rematch)

The Brooklyn Nets will be at Target Center on February 24 for the one and only rematch between the two clubs this season. We’ll see if Mikal Bridges brings any extra juice after these comments from McDaniels. The Timberwolves are off until Saturday evening, when they will play the hapless (8-36) San Antonio Spurs.

Timberwolves general manager Tim Connelly was widely scrutinized for the blockbuster Rudy Gobert trade, but it placed Minnesota among the top playoff contenders in the Western Conference. That was last season, now he’s made a trade for Julius Randle. He gave away Karl Anthony Towns, and so far the results are mixed.

Related: Minnesota Timberwolves Depth Chart and Injury Report – 2025

Anthony Edwards’ maximum contract started to kick in this season, which is why the Wolves moved Karl-Anthony Towns before the season. Julius Randle, the main return for Towns, makes nearly the same. However, his contract only lasts for one more season after the current. Now, let’s take a look at the Minnesota Timberwolves’ current contract situation for 2024-25.

Minnesota Timberwolves Contracts and Salary Cap 2024-25

The NBA salary cap for the 2024-25 season is $140,588,000. As you can see, the Timberwolves are well over that amount. The NBA has what is called a “soft salary cap”, though. So being over by a small amount isn’t a big deal.

However, Minnesota is well above the luxury tax spending limit of $178,132,000 (1st apron), about $28 million over on the active roster alone. They also have dead money and cap holds from old contracts being held against their salary cap, too.

2024-25 Minnesota Timberwolves Dead Money and Cap Holds

• Keita Bates Diop (Dead) – $2,654,644
• PJ Dozier (Dead) – $1,051,255
• Evan Turner (Hold) – $27,909,834
• Greg Monroe (Hold) – $2,093,637
• Aaron Brooks (Hold) – $2,087,519
• Austin Rivers (Hold) – $2,087,519
• Total Dead Money and Cap Holds – $37,884,408

Related: Where the Minnesota Timberwolves Stand in Latest NBA Power Rankings

In total, that makes $205,051,298 counting against the Minnesota Timberwolves salary cap in 2024-25. That not only puts them over the 1st apron ($178,132,00) of the luxury tax, but it makes them one of only five NBA teams over the 2nd apron ($188,931,000), which is projected to call for a $91 million tax bill at the end of the season, per Spotrac.com.

Future Minnesota Timberwolves Salary Cap Situation

Here’s a preview of how the Minnesota Timberwolves’ 2025-26 salary cap sheet looks before making any roster additions or subtractions. Disclaimer: NBA maximum contracts are determined based on a percentage of their team’s salary cap. Thus, future salaries for those players are estimates based off the projected salary caps for future seasons.

• * = Player option
• TO = Team option

Salary cap issues and luxury tax penalties begin to arise for NBA teams teams when they go over the luxury tax threshold, which is expected to increase to $187.9 million in 2025-26. But really, it’s the teams with rosters that exceed the 1st (proj. $195.9 million) and 2nd (proj. $207.8 million) “aprons” that can have owners emptying out their pockets in tax penalties.

Huge 2024-25 luxury tax bills loom

The Minnesota Timberwolves are projected to have a $190 million roster next season, before a big drop the year after. The Wolves will have to figure out what they want to do following that, as Anthony Edwards is the only main piece on the roster long term.

Look at the 2024-25 Minnesota Timberwolves ($198 million payroll). They are projected to exceed both aprons this season for the first time (no repeater penalty). The Wolves’ projected tax bill when this season comes to an end is $84 million…..

Related: Minnesota Timberwolves schedule 2024: TV, channel, and more

Congratulations on your purchase of the Minnesota Timberwolves for $1.5 billion, Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez, here’s a $50+ million luxury tax penalty to get you started…

It’s been a rocky start to the season so far, and Tim Connelly has some decisions to make regarding the current Wolves roster.

Julius Randle contract

Since entering the NBA after being drafted 7th overall in 2014, Julius Randle has developed into one of the league’s most versatile power forwards. Aside from an injury-plagued 2023-24 season where he played only 46 games due to a shoulder injury, Randle has shown remarkable durability throughout his career. A three-time All-Star and two-time member of the All-NBA team, he’s now an important member of the Timberwolves.

On a substantial contract, Randle has a three-year, $117 million deal with the Timberwolves, which includes a player option for the 2025-26 season. While there’s speculation about a potential trade in the future, there’s one key detail in Randle’s contract that many might not be aware of. Randle has a 10% trade bonus, meaning if he’s traded, his cost to his new team would increase by 10%.

Rudy Gobert contract

After becoming the 27th overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, Gobert spent the first nine years of his career with the Utah Jazz. Throughout that time, he developed a reputation for being arguably the best defender in basketball, winning four Defensive Player of the Year awards. A year ago, many would argue that Gobert’s then-$43.8 million salary was too rich for his contributions to the team, but it’s been a different story in his subsequent seasons in Minnesota. Gobert has continued to be a contender for the DPOY award.

Related: Timberwolves Insiders: Don’t Hold Your Breath for a Julius Randle Trade

A year ago, many would argue that Gobert’s then-$38M salary was too rich for his contributions to the team, but it’s been an entirely different story in his second season in Minnesota. Gobert’s back on track to be in the mix for another DPOY award.

Gobert is now under contract through the 2026-27 season after signing a three-year, $110 million extension. This extension came before the start of the 2024-25 season and includes a player option for 2027-28. If Gobert feels he can command more on the open market, he might decline the option, but if the then-35-year-old shows signs of decline, there’s a good chance he’ll exercise that player option.

Anthony Edwards contract

The face of the franchise. The Minnesota Timberwolves aren’t letting Edwards go anywhere anytime soon. His max contract kicks in at the start of the 2024-25 season, and like Towns, Ant has a 15% percent trade bonus included in his deal too. No matter what happens with the core around him, the Timberwolves will be building around the No. 1 pick of the 2020 NBA Draft.

Related: Teams Inquiring on Vital Timberwolves Role Player Prior to NBA Trade Deadline

Jaden McDaniels contract

As one of the two remaining 2020 Timberwolves first-round picks on the roster, McDaniels has evolved from a raw prospect into one of the premier all-around defenders in the NBA. While his offensive game continues to develop, there’s clear potential for even greater contributions in the future from this versatile wing.

A frequent subject of trade inquiries, the Timberwolves have decisively quelled such talks by securing McDaniels with a five-year, $131 million contract extension back in the 2023 offseason. He’s well-regarded in the locker room, and should his offensive skills sharpen further, his $26.2 million average annual salary might soon be viewed as a bargain.

McDaniels, Green, Thompson all tossed from Wolves vs Warriors

Then, as teammates from both teams were trying to get a handle on what was happening between McDaniels and Thomson, Draymond Green came up from behind Rudy Gobert and put him in a sleeperhold that he did not want to let go of. It was quite the scene.

The Warriors and Timberwolves got chippy just two minutes into their in-season tournament game 😳

Draymond Green, Klay Thompson and Jaden McDaniels were all ejected. pic.twitter.com/m7UvULewa2

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) November 15, 2023

This is psycho behavior by Draymond Green pic.twitter.com/88pU97pP0R

— Phil Mackey 🎙 (@PhilMackey) November 15, 2023

When the dust settled and referees got done reviewing the tape, Green, Thompson and McDaniels were all tossed from the game. All of this happened before a point was scored in the contest.

Related: NBA Insider: Minnesota Timberwolves are Serious Title Contenders in 2023-24

The hostility between these two teams goes back to their first matchup of the season, which was just two nights ago. That’s when Draymond Green fouled Anthony Edwards and then got loud when Ant let him know the unnecessary contact was unwarranted.

Jaden McDaniels contract extension official:

GOT IT DONE pic.twitter.com/ONhqNExj7G

— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) October 23, 2023

McDaniels’ new deal is reportedly for 5 years, $136 million. According to the Wolves’ official release, league rules do not permit them to officially announce the terms of the deal. Once it hits the books, Jaden’s new contract will put the Timberwolves over the luxury tax threshold.

Most importantly, especially since we do not pay Glen Taylor’s bills, the Wolves have locked up a huge piece to their future puzzle. Talks between Jaden’s representation and the Wolves had been ongoing for months but many were unsure it would actually happen, prior to game 1 of 82 tips off on Wednesday. But, they beat the buzzer by a couple days.

Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels has agreed to a five-year, $136M contract extension, his agents Nima Namakian of @InnovateSports and Bill Duffy of @WME_Sports tell me and @JonKrawczynski.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 23, 2023

The Wolves’ 23-year-old defensive stud had been sitting out of practice and preseason games with a reported calf injury. We’ll see if this new contract makes that calf feel better, prior to Wednesday’s season opener vs Toronto.

Jaden has always been a high-ceiling player who profiled well as a defender but had untapped offensive potential. We’ve seen that pop off sporadically, though he’s failed to find his regular role alongside Anthony Edwards, Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert. We’ll see if he takes on a newfound confidence after his new deal.

Jaden McDaniels career statistics

This blog will be updated with more details as they release.

Related: Minnesota Timberwolves Roster 2023-24 Finalized

Eric Strack | Minnesota Sports Fan

Kyle Anderson and Rudy Gobert got into a scuffle during a timeout???? pic.twitter.com/y8X76TbUuJ

— Backcourt Alerts (@BackcourtAlerts) April 9, 2023

It’s unclear exactly what happened and why. It’s possible that Gobert was missing assignments on defense and then tossing blame elsewhere. At least that’s what the great Wob (Rob Perez) believes.

Here are 2 of 3 defensive possessions before Rudy Gobert punch

You can hear KAT exclaim “Rudy!” during broadcast, implying he needed to come back to ball

What i pick up from Kyle in huddle is two “Dont do that!”s + “Youre a bitch”. May/May not be directly related to these plays pic.twitter.com/XVAhGFeII3

— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) April 9, 2023

Rudy wasn’t the only Wolf that left the game after punching something. Jaden McDaniels punched the wall walking down the hallway and is rumored to have a fractured wrist because of it.

Jaden McDaniels punched a wall so hard he put himself out of the game pic.twitter.com/QJQFoMI1i2

— Pelicans Film Room (@PelsFilmRoom) April 9, 2023

Minnesota Timberwolves F Jaden McDaniels — who was seen punching a wall on his way to the halftime locker room – has a fractured hand, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 9, 2023

Even after all of this drama, the Wolves found a way to victory against the Pelicans, clinching the 8-seed in the Western Conference, matching them up with the LA Lakers on Tuesday for a chance at moving up to the 7-seed in the playoffs.

Eric Strack | Minnesota Sports Fan