The Minnesota Timberwolves have emerged as a potential suitor for Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant as the franchise prepares for a pivotal offseason following its second consecutive loss in the Western Conference Finals.
While Durant ultimately remained in Phoenix through the 2025 trade deadline, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported on “The Hoop Collective” podcast that the Timberwolves gave “serious” consideration to acquiring the 15-time All-Star in February. Though no deal materialized, discussions at the time were described as credible enough to resurface this summer, particularly as the Suns weigh their future direction.
Durant, 36, is entering the final year of his current contract and is eligible for a two-year, $122 million extension. He averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while shooting 52.7% from the field in 62 games this season.
Ownership, Tim Connelly’s Future Provide Stability
Minnesota’s front office appears positioned to make aggressive moves this summer, buoyed by the resolution of its ownership dispute. The NBA is expected to approve the transfer of majority ownership to Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore following Glen Taylor’s decision not to contest the results of a February arbitration ruling.
One of the ownership group’s top priorities is to retain team president Tim Connelly, who completed the final year of his contract. Connelly was recruited by Lore and Rodriguez from the Denver Nuggets in 2022 and has reportedly expressed a desire to remain with the franchise.
Connelly’s return would ensure continuity for a front office that built a roster capable of winning 56 games this season and reaching the West Finals. The potential addition of Durant would represent a significant shift in title aspirations for a team that has yet to reach the NBA Finals.
Kevin Durant, Anthony Edwards Mutual Admiration
Any pursuit of Durant by the Timberwolves is tied, in part, to the relationship between him and All-NBA guard Anthony Edwards. The two played together on the United States men’s national team during the 2024 Paris Olympics and have frequently praised each other’s games.
“He’s my favorite player to watch,” Durant said of Edwards. “He’s grown so much… he wants to win, he wants to be great. Those are usually the guys who give you the most trouble.”
Edwards has expressed similar reverence, once calling Durant “the greatest basketball player of all time.” After facing Durant in last year’s playoffs, Edwards admitted, “I turned into a fan, honestly,” while acknowledging Durant’s relentless shot-making and defensive engagement.
Their connection could be a motivating factor for Minnesota’s front office as they consider adding a high-usage scorer to complement Edwards without disrupting team chemistry.
Roster Moves and Financial Outlook
Minnesota enters the offseason with key decisions to make. Both Julius Randle and Naz Reid hold player options, with Reid expected to decline his $15 million option to seek a longer deal. If both opt out, ESPN’s Bobby Marks projects the Timberwolves could sit roughly $11 million below the second tax apron, creating some flexibility.
The franchise must also evaluate whether Randle, who struggled in Games 2 and 4 of the West Finals, can be a long-term No. 2 option alongside Edwards. If not, the pursuit of Durant could provide a clear pivot.
While trade talks would be complex, any hypothetical deal for Durant would likely center on contracts such as Randle’s, along with draft compensation and younger players. However, reports indicate that Minnesota has been reluctant to include Jaden McDaniels or Edwards in discussions.
For a team that has flirted with title contention in back-to-back years, the risk of adding Durant, even with his age and salary, may be worth it. The Timberwolves have momentum, a stabilized leadership group, and a superstar in Edwards. Adding Durant could be the move that finally takes them over the top.
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