The Minnesota Timberwolves offseason is underway, as the NBA Draft has passed, and they have signed Naz Reid to a five-year contract extension. This means the Timberwolves have ticked off a big box.
Now, extending Julius Randle is next on the docket. He is set for a long-term extension, which will see him committing his future to the Timberwolves.
Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30) shoots against the Philadelphia 76ers in the first quarter at Target Center.
Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
After coming over from the New York Knicks as the primary trade piece for Karl-Anthony Towns, Randle struggled out of the gate. He and Donte DiVincenzo knew they had some big shoes to fill as they replaced a franchise legend.
As the 2024-25 season went on, Randle established himself as the team's second-best player. He was a reliable scoring option outside of Anthony Edwards, and his playmaking helped the rest of the team shine. When he reached his peak, the Timberwolves saw he was a good fit for the team in the long-term future.
The Timberwolves Would Love To Have Randle Back
Randle has two options if he wants to continue with the Timberwolves. He could opt into his player's option for the final year of his contract, or he could opt out and sign a new long-term deal, like Naz Reid.
Opting out and signing a new deal is the likely option because Randle can get a secure contract that will last him for multiple years. It is also the optimal way to build a team, as the Timberwolves won't have any worries.
Randle should look for as much money as possible like most players would. However, he could ask for a slight pay cut in his contract that would help them bring back Nickeil Alexander-Walker.
That is unlikely to happen, which could mean Alexander-Walker's time in Minnesota is over. That is a bummer for Timberwolves fans who have fallen in love with his game and impact on the team, but Randle is a more impactful player.
The Timberwolves Are Ready To Compete For A Title
With Naz Reid already committed to a long-term deal, getting Randle back is another big step forward for this team. They are close to reaching the NBA Finals, as they lost in only five games to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The future is bright for the Timberwolves, especially with Anthony Edwards leading the charge. He is improving year after year, as proven by his All-NBA Second Team nod in the 2024-25 season.
Randle is a game-changer for this team, as seen during the Playoffs when Edwards was quiet. There were games when Edwards was shut down, but it was Randle who stepped up and led the team.
With that one-two punch between Edwards and Randle, the Timberwolves are in good hands. However, the team's front office must do their best to help this team and head coach Chris Finch further.
They must meet their potential at a more reliable rate, and the 2024-25 team was good, but they lacked the firepower to beat the Thunder. It is up to Tim Connelly and his staff to find the solution for the Timberwolves to stay competitive.