The Minnesota Timberwolves have been busy on Friday morning. First, they signed Johnny Juzang to a training camp deal, then shortly after, they signed Enrique Freeman to a two-way contract. Freeman joins big man Rocco Zikarsky as the Wolves' lone two-way players. Freeman is an ideal fit with the Wolves’ theme of versatility and toughness.
However, after signing Freeman and Juzang, Tristen Newton’s future with the team is unclear. At first, it looked like there would be no room for Newton. However, the Wolves later let go of two-way big man Jesse Edwards, opening the door for Newton to return.
The Minnesota Timberwolves are signing forward Enrique Freeman on a two-way NBA contract, agents Keith Kreiter and Sam Cipriano of Edge Sports tell ESPN. The Pacers' 2024 second-rounder had a strong summer league, averaging 16.6 points, 9.8 rebounds, 1.8 blocks and 56% on 3s.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) August 1, 2025
Earlier in the offseason, the Wolves extended a qualifying two-way offer for Newton. He never picked it up, indicating the two sides were nearing a split. It’s possible, albeit not very likely, that Newton earns a standard contract with the Wolves.
While the Wolves could use some more guard depth, Newton’s lack of NBA experience makes him unlikely to earn a standard deal, especially after they just signed Juzang. Perhaps the Wolves will look to sign more guards to a training camp deal, along with Juzang, to compete for a roster spot, and if they don't make the roster, they could earn a two-way deal. Or they could simply re-sign Newton on a two-way, leaving training camp to only decide the main roster.
Will Newton find a new team or stay with the Wolves?
The 6-foot-5 combo guard is a skilled defender and playmaker. Newton won two national championships with UConn and has a year of NBA experience. The Wolves picked him up after he was waived by the Indiana Pacers, who drafted him in the second-round. Ironically, Newton’s tenure with the Wolves could come to an end after the signing of another former Pacer.
Newton appeared in just eight total NBA games as a rookie, including three games with the Wolves. However, he thrived in the G League, averaging 16.3 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 6.8 assists.
Given this, it’s likely that Newton earns a two-way contract either with the Wolves or elsewhere. Newton’s ability to make a well-rounded impact makes him an intriguing option for any team that might be looking for a guard. Notably, 13 teams have open two-way spots, with many of these teams having multiple openings, meaning there’s plenty of chances for Newton to earn another opportunity.
Newton finding a new team seemed likely at first and could still be possible, especially since he has already been offered a qualifying offer. However, after the Wolves let go of Jesse Edwards, the chances of Newton returning increased. Ultimately, only time will tell if Newton will return to the Wolves or find a new home.