The Minnesota Timberwolves got the full Julius Randle experience this playoffs. For the first two rounds, Randle was dominant, averaging 23.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 5.9 assists. However, in the Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Randle's production slipped, averaging just 17.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3.6 turnovers. Randle's shot selection and decision-making undoubtedly hurt the Timberwolves as they lost to OKC in five games.
It's unclear what version of Randle is real, especially considering he similarly had ups and downs in the regular season. With Randle likely becoming a free agent this summer, the Wolves will have a difficult decision to make.
The Wolves could re-sign Randle
Randle has a $30.9 million player option this offseason. He's likely to opt out with the hopes of working out a long-term contract with the Timberwolves. Given how well he played for the start of the playoffs and the need for secondary shot creation next to Anthony Edwards, the Wolves seem likely to re-sign him. Additionally, the steep price they gave up to land Randle adds to the chances they'll re-sign him.
Randle is eligible for a four-year $181 million deal equating to a $45.25 million annual salary. He probably won't get the full amount, but expect a new deal to be somewhere within this range. While this might seem like a bit of an overpay, that's the price for a second option and an All-Star caliber player in today's NBA. Regardless, it's unclear what Randle is truly worth and if he can be a true second option on a championship team.
Randle's flaws were on display in the OKC series, but there's no denying that his presence as a shot creator has been vital next to Edwards. Losing Randle without acquiring adequate talent back would greatly hurt the Wolves' ceiling.
If the T-Wolves part ways with Randle they must have a clear plan
One notable rumor that could give the T-Wolves a clear Randle upgrade is landing Kevin Durant. In this scenario, the Wolves would either package Randle in a sign-and-trade or let him walk, proposing a deal centered around Jaden McDaniels, Donte DiVincenzo, and picks. While it would be diffcult given both teams' financial situations, a KD-Timberwolves trade is still a possibility.
Durant would be a dream target for the Wolves this offseason. He would give Minnesota an elite three-level scorer and proven champion. The scoring duo of Ant and Durant would have unlimited upside. With this move, the Wolves would be a clear threat to win the title.
If the Timberwolves aren't able to land Durant but want to move from Randle, they'll be in a curious spot. On one hand, they'll be able to re-sign key free agents Naz Reid and Nickeil Alexander-Walker. However, there aren't any other realistic trade targets who would provide the high level of shot creation needed to complement Edwards. Furthermore, this free agent class is very weak.
Continuing to invest in amazing role players around Edwards won't be enough to help the Wolves reach the next level. Ultimately, re-signing Randle or trading for Durant are the most likely possibilities for the Wolves.