Nickeil Alexander-Walker signed a four-year $62 million deal with the Atlanta Hawks. Unquestionably, this is a tough loss for the Minnesota Timberwolves, as Alexander-Walker is one of the best role players in the league and has an impressive all-around skill set. However, this deal was a sign-and-trade where the Wolves received a 2027 second-round pick and cash considerations. Furthermore, the Wolves gained a $7 million traded player exception, which offers significant flexibility. The Wolves could later use this TPE to land an impactful player.
Atlanta is sending a 2027 second-round pick via Cleveland and cash to Minnesota to acquire Nickeil Alexander-Walker via sign-and-trade for four years and $62 million, sources said. https://t.co/ej11s9qfM4
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2025
Getting anything in return for Alexander-Walker benefits the Wolves
This isn’t a ton to get back in return for Alexander-Walker, with the traded player exception being the most beneficial aspect of this move. Nevertheless, it’s better than nothing, and in most cases, teams don’t get anything back after losing a free agent. It was widely expected the Wolves would be priced out of Alexander-Walker, and it’s easy to see why after looking at the contract he got. Overall, getting some flexibility and draft capital in return for NAW is a win for the Wolves, especially given their high payroll.
Notably, Alexander-Walker averaged 9.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.7 assists on 43.8/38.1/78 shooting splits. Alexander-Walker’s skill set as an on-ball defender, spot-up shooter, and secondary playmaker makes him an ideal fit next to Trae Young. The Hawks were commonly mentioned as a suitor for NAW in part due to his basketball fit, but also because they had a traded player exception.
Losing Alexander-Walker opens up minutes for the young guys
In addition to getting some value back for Alexander-Walker, opening up minutes for Terrence Shannon Jr., Jaylen Clark, and Rob Dillingham could be another silver lining of this move. Undoubtedly, the Wolves would be better equipped to win a title with Alexander-Walker. However, having two natural wing replacements for him is a massive benefit. Dillingham will also slide into a consistent role as a backup point guard with Alexander-Walker’s departure opening up further minutes on the bench and Mike Conley’s minutes being reduced.
Even without NAW, the Wolves are title contenders, and these young players will have key roles next season. This, paired with the assets Minnesota got in return for Alexander-Walker, softens the blow of losing him. Regardless, losing Alexander-Walker will hurt, given his incredible all-around impact and importance to the team.