The Minnesota Timberwolves are one of the first teams to have pulled the trigger on some major moves this offseason. By trading Julius Randle to the Brooklyn Nets in what can safely be considered a salary dump, Minnesota has effectively kick-started its summer retooling.
Trading Randle to the Nets addressed some key issues for the Timberwolves, primarily involving their salary cap concerns. While the newly gained flexibility enabled them to make some vital signings, such as Ayo Dosunmu, it unfortunately raised concerns about Anthony Edwards’ desire to stay with the team.
Given that he is the face of the franchise, several fans were worried about losing him if things didn’t pan out this summer. On that note, however, Timberwolves president Tim Connelly shared an immensely reassuring update on Anthony Edwards‘ outlook on the team’s vision.
“I think he’s super super excited, you know. There’s been countless things we could have done; our roster’s pretty well thought of league-wide,” Connelly commented. “When you go to your leaders like Ant and say, ‘It takes this to get that,’ and the conviction he has in our guys is evident when he says, ‘We’re not trading this guy.'”
“So I think the whole room is excited, and we’re ready to try and take the next step,” he continued. “But Ant’s just such a competitive guy. He wants to ensure that we’re going in the right direction and keep getting better and better.”
At 24, with averages of 28.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, Anthony Edwards is already recognized as one of the best players in the NBA. Having embraced a leadership role early in his career, Edwards seems keen to be more active in securing victory for his team.
In this regard, Edwards’ involvement in the roster construction and management can be viewed as largely positive. With the four-time All-Star exercising his superstar authority in the offseason, Minnesota can be assured of his commitment.
What Changes Can The Timberwolves Expect Next Season?
Over the last few seasons, the Minnesota Timberwolves have looked like one of the most competitive teams in the league. After two consecutive Western Conference Finals appearances, many expected the Wolves to make it out of the West this year. Sadly, the team fell short in their endeavor.
Now, with the Wolves undergoing some drastic changes, there is no telling what lies in store for Minnesota. However, Tim Connelly shared a glimpse of the minor role changes that could impact the team’s performance next season.
While noting the development of Jaden McDaniels (14.8 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 2.7 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.1 BPG) and Naz Reid‘s promotion to a starting role, Connelly shared:
“I think you’re always looking for more connectors and more playmakers… Their playmaking is different, but both guys have a playmaking component that they show here and there, and it’s got to be more consistent.”
With Randle out of the picture, both Reid (13.6 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 1.0 SPG, 1.0 BPG, 36.2% 3P) and McDaniels will be expected to step up and play a larger role in the starting lineup. With Reid effectively compensating for Randle’s playmaking versatility, fans can expect a different version of the Wolves’ big man.
Along with the two frontcourt players, Connelly also noted how Ayo Dosunmu would have a marginally different role next year.
“We’re extremely excited about Ayo (Dosunmu) with a little more freedom, a little more open floor, I think he has a lot of tools not just as a scorer but a playmaker as well,” he shared.
Although Dosunmu’s regular-season figures didn’t stand out (14.8 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 3.6 APG), his performances in the postseason were enough to convince the Timberwolves to invest in him. With the 26-year-old signing a five-year, $112 million deal, the Wolves have secured a reliable backup point guard, strengthening their backcourt.
As meaningful as these changes are, none of them will prove impactful unless the Timberwolves succeed in freeing up Anthony Edwards from being a playmaker. Given the need for a starter-quality point guard, Minnesota will continue its pursuit of another star.
