Nickeil Alexander-Walker has been one of the Minnesota Timberwolves' best players in the playoffs. Impressively, in the Western Conference Finals, NAW is averaging 15 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists on 51.2/48/80 shooting splits. Alexander-Walker is a free agent this summer and will demand a massive contract on the open market in a weaker free agency class. While Alexander-Walker has been a key player for the Timberwolves, it's unclear if they'll be able to re-sign him.
Alexander-Walker's impact is vital
Alexander-Walker makes an incredible all-around impact. Offensively, he has an ideal combination of spot-up shooting and shot creation. Additionally, he's a capable secondary playmaker. Defensively, he's an elite point of attack stopper with a ton of versatility.
This skill set makes him a vital part of the Timberwolves' success, but will also make him a hot commodity on the open market. It's possible NAW could earn a Bruce Brown like contract, especially with his play this series. A rebuilding team like the Brooklyn Nets could also be intrigued to see what NAW can do with more opportunity. Or a win-now team like the Memphis Grizzlies could look to spend big on an elite role player.
The Timberwolves are in a tough spot
The Timberwolves have some tough decisions to make this summer. Julius Randle and Naz Reid are likely to opt out of their contracts and become free agents. The Wolves will likely prioritize re-signing Randle and Reid. As a result, Alexander-Walker could be the odd one out, especially since another team with more cap space will probably offer him a hefty contract. If the Timberwolves bring NAW back, it will likely mean Reid is gone. This sets up a challenging decision for Minnesota.
The Wolves could look to re-sign Reid over Alexander-Walker because they have a more natural replacement for NAW. Rookie Terrence Shannon Jr. has shown plenty of flashes in this series and could take over Alexander-Walker's role. Shannon's ability to score in bunches and defensive energy allow him to make a positive impact. Jaylen Clark is another young player who could fill this void. The 6-foot-5 wing is a pesky on-ball defender and knockdown shooter.
Minnesota is currently in the second apron, and with new ownership, they'll want to get out of it or at least not get deeper in it. This increases the probability that Alexander-Walker won't be back. Cap expert Bobby Marks notes that Minnesota will likely be outbid for Alexander-Walker. Ultimately, despite Alexander-Walker's value, the Timberwolves' financial situation and roster construction will make it diffcult for them to re-sign him.