Barring a surprise, Timberwolves look set to 'run it back' with same core

Timberwolves Opt for Stability as They Prepare to Compete in a Competitive Western Conference

The Western Conference has always been one of the most competitive divisions in the NBA, and this offseason has seen several teams make significant moves to strengthen their rosters. The Houston Rockets, for example, acquired Kevin Durant and added depth through strategic trades. The Denver Nuggets brought in Cam Johnson and some experienced veterans, while the Dallas Mavericks secured the first overall pick in the 2024 draft, selecting Cooper Flagg. The Los Angeles Lakers also made a splash by signing DeAndre Ayton.

Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves have taken a different approach. Rather than making big-name additions, they’ve focused on retaining key players and building around their existing core. President of Basketball Operations Tim Connelly has prioritized continuity, locking up Naz Reid and Julius Randle with long-term contracts. This strategy suggests that the team is preparing to "run it back" next season, relying on internal development and chemistry rather than major roster overhauls.

So far, the Wolves have only lost one player from their rotation—Nickeil Alexander-Walker—who left due to financial reasons. They have not added any players who are expected to see significant minutes in the upcoming season. However, it’s likely that they will sign a few low-cost free agents in the coming weeks. For now, their only new additions are two young big men selected in the draft, highlighting a focus on future growth rather than immediate impact.

This decision reflects a calculated approach by Connelly, who has historically made bold moves when necessary. In 2022, he traded heavily to acquire Rudy Gobert, pairing him with Karl-Anthony Towns in an unconventional frontcourt. Then, just before the 2023 season, he shocked the league by trading Towns for Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, and a first-round pick. Both moves had their challenges, but they ultimately helped the Wolves reach the conference finals in consecutive seasons.

The benefit of not making a major move this year could be avoiding the adjustment period that often follows such changes. Randle and DiVincenzo, now in their second season with the team, should be more comfortable with their teammates and ready to contribute immediately. Even without Alexander-Walker, the Wolves have a strong foundation, with many of the same players who posted a 25-6 record between March and May this past season.

Looking ahead, the team’s three core pieces—Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, and Naz Reid—are still developing. Edwards, set to turn 24, has shown consistent improvement over his first five seasons. McDaniels, who turns 25 this year, had a breakout postseason, averaging nearly 15 points per game. Reid, approaching his 26th birthday, may be entering his prime. With the support of veterans like Randle, Gobert, and DiVincenzo, these mid-20s stars will play a critical role in determining the team’s success.

While the loss of Alexander-Walker and the decline of Mike Conley could pose challenges in the backcourt, the Wolves have already built a deep roster. Terrence Shannon Jr., who is a year older than Edwards, showed promise during the playoffs and is expected to take on a larger role. Rob Dillingham, the eighth overall pick from last year, could emerge as a key point guard in his second season. Jaylen Clark also provides valuable depth, offering defensive versatility when needed.

Despite the lack of major additions, the Wolves currently have ten players who are capable of contributing in a rotational role. The question remains whether this group is good enough to compete in a stacked Western Conference. Teams like the Thunder, Nuggets, Mavericks, and Rockets all look formidable, while the Lakers, Clippers, and Warriors continue to push for championships. The Spurs and Pelicans could also be surprises, and the Grizzlies and Suns remain unpredictable.

Connelly seems confident in the current roster, believing that chemistry and internal growth can carry the team to success. While this approach may not be the flashiest, it could be the right path for the Wolves as they aim to bring home their first-ever championship.