When the 2023-24 season arrives, the Minnesota Timberwolves will be handing out some hefty paychecks to some of their best players. Rudy Gobert, Karl-Anthony Towns and Mike Conley will all earn north of $24 million next season from the club.
By 2027-28, Towns will be making $61 million, a number that does not look so bad in light of Anthony Davis’ new deal. It is always important to pay high-end players their due to ensure your best shot at contention.
Conversely, being able to have players on team-friendly deals is equally important to building toward a championship. The Timberwolves have several players that will feel like they are underpaid next season.
1. Naz Reid — $12.9 million
When Naz Reid re-signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves in June, many saw it as a bargain of a signing. He re-joined the team on a three-year, $42 million extension, while several sources around the league felt he was capable of commanding a contract that would pay him closer to $20 million per year.
As a relatively coveted free agent, the Timberwolves getting Reid back on this kind of deal felt like an absolute steal. It allowed them to allocate resources to eventually re-sign Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and gave them more financial flexibility going forward as well.
There is no question Reid could be making more money elsewhere, as it was reported that he turned down larger offers from other teams to remain with the Wolves. He is unquestionably one of the most underpaid players in Minnesota.