Timberwolves updated depth chart following the 2024 NBA Draft
By Austin McGee
The Minnesota Timberwolves were busy on both days of the draft. On the first night, the Timberwolves dealt a 2031 unprotected first-rounder and a 2030 first-round pick swap to the San Antonio Spurs for the eighth-overall pick—Rob Dillingham.
Later on the first night, the Timberwolves snagged Fighting Illini star shooting guard Terrence Shannon Jr. with the 27th selection. However, Minnesota didn't stop there. The Wolves originally owned the 37th pick, but traded with the Detroit Pistons in a cost-cutting move to dump Wendell Moore Jr.'s contract and move further down in the draft.
Following the trade with Detroit, Minnesota moved even further down from the 53 spot. The Timberwolves dealt the 53rd pick to the Memphis Grizzlies to obtain the 57th selection. From there, the Wolves completely abandoned their remaining selections by dealing the 57th pick to the Toronto Raptors.
After selecting two first-rounders, cost-cutting measures were in full effect. Once Minnesota selected Dillingham, their tax bill increased from $56 to $84 million. The Wolves total salary allocated is $279 million—$138 million over the salary cap.
It's quite clear Tim Connelly and company have committed to being a second-apron team. Rather than straddling the line between the first and second-apron, Minnesota decided it was best to add two rookies likely worth more than their contract values instead of signing veterans for near-minimum deals.
Before delving into the Timberwolves' updated depth chart, we'll take a look at the squad's notable free agents.
Free Agents
Guards Jordan McLaughlin, Monte Morris, Daishen Nix; Forwards Kyle Anderson, T.J. Warren; and Bigs Luka Garza.
Point Guard: Mike Conley Jr.
The 36-year-old floor general is entering his second full season as a starter. Although he'll turn 37 before next season, his game has aged gracefully. He's coming off a season where he recorded his highest true shooting percentage.
2nd String: Rob Dillingham
Minnesota's prized first-round addition, the electric Dillingham is a surefire professional scorer. He won't start next season, but it's only a matter of time before the former Wildcat takes over for Conley Jr.
Shooting Guard: Anthony Edwards
After years of searching, the Timberwolves have finally found their guy and Anthony Edwards is him. The 22-year-old superstar led Minnesota to the Western Conference Finals while earning an All-NBA Second Team birth.
2nd String: Nickeil Alexander-Walker
Nickeil Alexander-Walker has solidified his role in the NBA following several up-and-down seasons. Going from low-percentage, high-volume gunner to three-point sniping, lockdown defender is no easy feat.
Small Forward: Jaden McDaniels
Only 24 years old by the start of next season, Jaden McDaniels has made his presence felt as an All-NBA defender. The lanky forward landed on the All-NBA Defense Second team a season ago and will likely earn first team honors sooner rather than later.
2nd String: Terrence Shannon Jr.
More of a shooting guard than a small forward, both Alexander-Walker and Terrence Shannon Jr. are essentially wings in the NBA. The 6-foot-6 guard is an electric athlete who can score in bunches. He'll add plenty of on-ball scoring for the Wolves reserve unit.
3rd String: Josh Minott
The sole third-stringer on the roster—Josh Minott has appeared in 47 games over the past two seasons. While he hasn't contributed much in the pros, he's starred in the G-League.
Power Forward: Karl-Anthony Towns
After several seasons of empty production, Karl-Anthony Towns has further honed his skills. He's as efficient as ever on offense but also demonstrated the ability to defend top-tier bigs on the defensive end.
2nd String: Leonard Miller
Leonard Miller will likely be relied upon as a contributor next season if Anderson bolts in free agency. The 6-foot-10 forward hit the hardwood for just 52 minutes this past season but displayed a unique, all-around game playing for the Iowa Wolves. Be sure to watch out for Miller's breakout in the Summer League.
Center: Rudy Gobert
The reigning Defensive Player of the Year—Rudy Gobert drastically changed the Timberwolves' defense. Behind the stalwart's imposing defense, Minnesota fielded the top defensive rating and held opponents to a league-best 106.5 points per game.
2nd String: Naz Reid
Another award winner, Naz Reid brought home the coveted NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award. Reid brings a combination of off-the-dribble juice and elite spot-up shotmaking to a Wolves bench previously devoid of go-to scorers.