Currently, the Minnesota Timberwolves have two open standard roster spots. The Wolves have prioritized continuity this offseason. So far, their only moves have been extending Naz Reid and Julius Randle and re-signing Joe Ingles. While they were priced out of Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Minnesota is set to bring back a nearly identical roster.
Despite having two open roster spots, the Wolves are likely to leave one open to start the season. This would give the Timberwolves some extra financial and roster flexibility. In the second-apron era, this has been a fairly common strategy for teams with high payrolls. The Wolves doing this feels likely, given payroll and their approach to the offseason so far.
The Wolves could sign a big name
The Wolves have expressed interest in Bradley Beal and Malcolm Brogdon. While they would still be affordable players, both veteran guards would be bigger acquisitions. Beal’s shot creation and Brogdon’s playmaking would be ideal fits for the Wolves’ needs. However, it needs to be considered how landing one of these players would impact the Wolves’ rotation, especially Rob Dillingham.
Damian Lillard could be a name to watch as well. He will likely miss all of next season. Signing Lillard would allow Dillingham to develop and would give them a rock-solid point guard rotation in the 2026-27 season. Regardless, there haven't been any credible reports linking Lillard to Minnesota; thus, Beal or Brogdon are clearer targets.
Signing a veteran like Beal or Brogdon would hurt Dillingham’s development, and neither player would move the needle a ton for the Wolves. It feels more likely that the Wolves would sign Brogdon, especially given the Los Angeles Clippers' heavy interest in Beal and that he still hasn’t been bought out.
Rounding out the roster with a depth piece could be logical
Another name to watch for the Wolves is veteran point guard Monte Morris. He played for the Wolves briefly during the 2023-24 season and would be the ideal depth piece for Minnesota. Morris’ playmaking chops allow him to play minutes if needed, without disrupting the rotation.
Cameron Payne, Delon Wright, Patty Mills, and Alec Burks are other guards who could play a similar role to Morris. If the Wolves want to upgrade their wing or big man depth, Lindy Waters III, Torrey Craig, Precious Achiuwa, and Trey Lyles are intriguing options. In my eyes, it’s more likely the Wolves look to round out their roster with a depth piece rather than a big swing.
The Wolves' final roster move could be hiding in plain sight
Another option to monitor is the Wolves converting Tristen Newton to a standard deal. The Wolves offered Newton a two-way contract; however, he hasn’t signed yet. Despite not having the best summer league debut against the New Orleans Pelicans, Newton followed this up with a solid outing against the Denver Nuggets.
If Newton finishes off his summer league on an impressive note, don’t be surprised if he earns a standard contract. While he wouldn’t play minutes, Newton is a solid depth piece who could develop and would likely be assigned to the G League squad at points throughout the season. Converting his contract would fit the Wolves' theme of continuity and would allow them to take a chance on another player with a two-way deal, perhaps Amari Bailey, who has looked good in his summer league minutes.
Ultimately, whether the Wolves opt to make a big move or improve their depth, they are in a great spot for this upcoming season.