Minnesota Timberwolves: 3 affordable free agent targets

The Minnesota Timberwolves approach to reforming the roster this offseason will be highly influenced by their restrictive salary cap situation.

If the Minnesota Timberwolves choose to run back their existing core of players without any major trades this offseason, their biggest asset for acquiring players will be their Non-Taxpayer Mid-Level exception, with is estimated to be worth approximately $12,221,000.

The existing contracts of PF Karl-Anthony Towns, C Rudy Gobert, and PG Mike Conley paired with the potential contracts of SG Anthony Edwards (extension-eligible), SF Jaden McDaniels (extension-eligible), and backup center Naz Reid (unrestricted free agent) will leave the team will very little cap space to work with to sign free agents, meaning the front office may need to look along the margins for budget-friendly players to fill out the roster.

Timberwolves have options

One potential option for the Timberwolves is to target veterans who are willing to take a pay cut to join a competitive team. These players might prioritize winning over money and could provide valuable experience and leadership to a young roster. Additionally, the team could explore signing young, unproven players who have shown potential but haven’t yet commanded large contracts. These players could be looking for an opportunity to prove themselves and could be signed at a relatively low cost.

Finally, the Timberwolves could consider signing players on short-term contracts with team options or non-guaranteed deals. This would allow them to evaluate the players’ fit within the team and potentially create flexibility for future years. Overall, the Timberwolves will need to be creative and strategic in their approach to building a competitive roster within their restrictive salary cap situation.

Let’s take a look at 3 potential options for the Timberwolves to find some quality, budget-friendly free agents in 2023 within their current financial constraints.