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Minnesota Timberwolves: 3 free agents the Timberwolves could still sign

By Dylan Jackson

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 09: Kelly Oubre Jr. #12 of the Golden State Warriors looks on against the Washington Wizards during the second half of an NBA basketball game at Chase Center on April 09, 2021 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 09: Kelly Oubre Jr. #12 of the Golden State Warriors looks on against the Washington Wizards during the second half of an NBA basketball game at Chase Center on April 09, 2021 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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WASHINGTON, DC – APRIL 21: Kelly Oubre Jr. #12 of the Golden State Warriors, possible Minnesota Timberwolves target. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC – APRIL 21: Kelly Oubre Jr. #12 of the Golden State Warriors, possible Minnesota Timberwolves target. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /

Minnesota Timberwolves free agency target: Kelly Oubre

One of, if not the biggest name on the market (outside of Kawhi Leonard, who is widely believed to be back on his way to the Clippers) is Kelly Oubre.

Oubre is a rotational forward that brings solid defense and rim finishing – both of those skills are sought after in the NBA – and forwards of Oubre’s stature almost always retain their value over time.

In this scenario, Oubre agrees to a three-year, $48 million deal with a player option in the third season. In order for the Timberwolves to be able to acquire this contract, they have to send out at least $14 million in a sign-and-trade, and Taurean Prince’s contract fits that perfectly. The reason the Golden State Warriors are unable to retain Oubre largely relates to their luxury tax bill – it could grow over $100 million if Oubre receives a contract similar to the one outlined here.

Oubre could be an immediate starter for the Timberwolves, playing either the small or power forward positions – with the ability to get run at the shooting guard spot sparingly. Over the course of the last three seasons, Oubre is averaging 16 points, six rebounds, and one assist per game on shooting splits of 45/33/76. He is a solid player that makes plenty of sense for a team that needs more wing/forward depth.

Next. Timberwolves: Who will play backup PG?. dark

A Kelly Oubre addition would also mean the Timberwolves add another long-term piece to their core, one that consists of Karl-Anthony Towns, D’Angelo Russell, Anthony Edwards, Malik Beasley, and Jaden McDaniels. Adding Oubre would mean the Timberwolves become even more competitive for a Western Conference play-in/playoff spot.