The Minnesota Timberwolves are poised to retain both Naz Reid and Julius Randle ahead of NBA free agency, fortifying their frontcourt next season. However, that will open the door for Nickeil Alexander-Walker to depart in free agency, with suitors already emerging for him on the open market.
NBA insider Jake Fischer writes that with Alexander-Walker viewed as the “odd free agent out” for Minnesota, the Los Angeles Clippers, Orlando Magic and Atlanta Hawks are viewed as landing spots around the league.
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Atlanta acquired Kristaps Porzingis ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft, setting itself up to contend next season in an Eastern Conference that has been decimated by injuries. The deal barely increased Atlanta’s payroll for next season, meaning they have a full $14.1 million mid-level exception to use in free agency
Los Angeles is also in the market for a 3-and-D guard this offseason. Alexander-Walker could slot in behind Kris Dunn at shooting guard, giving the Clippers much-needed backcourt depth.
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Orlando Magic stats 2024-’25 (ESPN): 35.3 three-point attempts per game (23rd in NBA), 11.2 three-pointers made per game (last in NBA), 31.8% from beyond the arc (last in NBA)
Orlando had previously been linked to Alexander-Walker at the start of the offseason. However, the team acquired Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies and then used the 25th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft on guard Jase Richardson. It’s unclear if the Magic have as much interest in Alexander-Walker as they did before these moves, especially with several other playoff contenders emerging as suitors for him.
NFL, MLB & college football writer for Sportsnaut. Graduated from San Diego State University with BA in Journalism, 2019. ... More about Matt Johnson