The Minnesota Timberwolves basically tacked themselves onto a three-team trade with the Chicago Bulls and Detroit Pistons on Tuesday.
The Wolves didn't receive anything themselves. They sent Mike Conley's contract to the Bulls, and they sent a 2026 first-round protected pick swap to the Pistons.
They got exactly what they wanted: cap relief.
Why? Because Giannis Antetokounmpo may be available.
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ESPN's Shams Charania explained Minnesota's role in the deal like this:
"Minnesota creates significant tax savings and roster space as they pursue a Milwaukee star this week."
Shams sure isn't talking about Bobby Portis.
Giannis would be an absolute blockbuster acquisition for Minnesota if the Wolves could pull it off. An Antetokounmpo partnership with Anthony Edwards would be one of the most exciting in the NBA.
NBA insider Marc Stein said earlier Tuesday that the Timberwolves are one of the teams that Antetokounmpo seems to be eying if he is indeed dealt before Thursday's NBA trade deadline.
Conley was on a $10.7 million expiring contract, and with the Wolves in the luxury tax, their savings by dealing him are actually exponential.
Minnesota got nothing back in 4-team trade
They gave up a protected 1st to salary dump Mike Conley
Why you might ask?
So they can have a better shot at landing Giannis
Grab your popcorn πΏπΏπΏ#FeartheDeer #NBA #Wolves
β Joshua Gitman (@JoshGitman) February 3, 2026
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The 38-year old Conley is a solid veteran presence and still playable in a bench role.
Clearly, Minnesota believes its chances of landing Antetokounmpo are real.
With about two days for the Timberwolves to get a deal done for Giannis, it's time for Minnesota sports fans to buckle up.
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