As the Minnesota Timberwolves prepare for the 2024-25 NBA season, a significant decision looms over their roster. While insiders suggest the team is likely to retain Karl-Anthony Towns (KAT) and attempt another run, the financial implications of this decision could mean losing valuable players Naz Reid and Nickeil Alexander-Walker by 2025.
Minnesota Timberwolves: The Financial Crunch
Potential Player Departures
Reid holds a $15 million player option for 2025, and Alexander-Walker will become an unrestricted free agent the same year. Without shedding substantial salary soon, the Minnesota Timberwolves risk letting both players test free agency. This scenario places the team in a precarious position, where they might have to choose between retaining KAT and securing the futures of Reid and Alexander-Walker.
Expert Insights
Kevin Pelton from ESPN shared his thoughts on “The Lowe Post” podcast: “If you’re talking about paying both of those guys raises as the cap is starting to go up… all of those questions start to lead you to… it’s easier to do that this summer.” He further elaborated that trading Towns now could allow the Minnesota Timberwolves to take back a contract that expires next summer, saving money to extend Reid and Alexander-Walker.
Comparing KAT and Reid
Statistical Breakdown
When comparing KAT and Reid, the statistics are quite revealing. Reid’s per-36 minutes statistics are strikingly similar to Towns, with Reid averaging 20.0 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists, while Towns averages 24.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists. Reid also outperforms Towns in steals and blocks per 36 minutes, showcasing his defensive prowess.
| Player | PTS/36 | REB/36 | AST/36 | 3FG% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Towns | 24.0 | 9.2 | 3.4 | 41.6 |
| Reid | 20.0 | 7.8 | 1.9 | 41.4 |
Reid’s strong performance and potential for growth make him a valuable asset, especially considering his defensive contributions.
The Cap Dilemma
Salary Cap Challenges
With the NBA salary cap set to rise, the Minnesota Timberwolves face the challenge of managing their payroll efficiently. Zach Lowe highlighted this issue, noting, “If you have another max-level player, you’re in jail instantly upon acquiring that contract.” The financial burden of KAT’s max contract combined with another high-salary player could limit the team’s flexibility.
Possible Trade Scenarios
Trading Rudy Gobert
An alternative to trading Towns would be moving Rudy Gobert and his max contract. However, Gobert’s name rarely surfaces in trade discussions, making this scenario less likely. The Minnesota Timberwolves must weigh whether the combination of Towns and Reid in the starting lineup can deliver better results.
The Bottom Line
The Minnesota Timberwolves‘ decision boils down to whether they view Towns as a more valuable asset compared to the combined potential of Reid and Alexander-Walker. Trading KAT is complicated but might be necessary to maintain roster flexibility and avoid losing key players to free agency.
As the Minnesota Timberwolves navigate these financial and strategic challenges, their decisions this summer will significantly impact the team’s future. The potential of retaining or losing players like Reid and Alexander-Walker hinges on their approach to managing KAT’s contract and the overall payroll.
