The Minnesota Timberwolves are maximizing their chances for another deep playoff run. After reaching the Western Conference Finals last season, the Wolves are making sure to retain their core players, starting with star Julius Randle, who just signed a multi-million dollar contract with the team.
Randle was a key player in Minnesota’s push to reach the conference finals last season. In his first year with the team, the 11-year veteran averaged 18.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game, shooting 48.5% from the field.
Although the Timberwolves lost their ticket to the NBA Finals to the eventual champion Oklahoma City Thunder on this occasion, the front office is determined to return to the NBA Finals, and securing Randle is the first step in that direction.
Julius Randle’s new million-dollar contract
According to ESPN insider Shams Charania, Randle waived a $31 million player option to sign a new three-year, $100 million contract extension with Minnesota, which includes a player option for the 2027-2028 season.
Randle joined the Timberwolves last October after five seasons with the Knicks as part of the Karl-Anthony Towns trade. The three-time All-Star was the seventh overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft by the Lakers. After four years in Los Angeles, Randle spent a year with the New Orleans Pelicans before his stint in New York.
Minnesota and free agency
Randle was one of the top prospects in this free agency, but with this deal, the Timberwolves ensured they would keep him on their roster at least until he turns 33. Furthermore, it keeps the core of players who reached the conference finals this year intact.
Randle’s return follows that of center Naz Reid, who signed a five-year, $125 million deal with a player option for 2029-2030 this week. With both stars secured, General Manager Matt Lloyd’s front office can focus on the free agency period, which is just beginning.
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