Par Pierre-Andréa Fraile | Journaliste sportif
Following the Timberwolves’ latest playoff disappointment, many are wondering about the future of the team and its key players. Could Rudy Gobert be one of them? A well-known journalist has revealed the trend.
Whatever happens, this year the NBA will see a new team add its name to its list of champions. It remains to be seen whether the Pacers or the Thunder will lift the Larry O’Brien Trophy in a few days’ time. The Timberwolves, meanwhile, will be watching the Finals as mere spectators, although they too would have liked to claim their first title. Instead, they’ll have to think about their future.
Should the Minnesota front office give the current roster time, or make major changes this summer? The question is bound to arise, and is already leading to the spread of numerous viral rumors. Among them, the possible recruitment of a second “alpha player” alongside Anthony Edwards, and why not the arrival of… Kevin Durant. But this will not come without sacrifice.
A crucial update on the Timberwolves’ short-term future
Given their already heavy wage bill, the Wolves won’t be able to afford to splurge too much this off-season. Some journalists were therefore raising the possibility of Rudy Gobert’s departure, which would allow them to save money. However, according to Jon Krawczynski, the franchise’s new owners are not interested in cutting spending. Vishwesha Kumar of Fadeaway World reports:
According to Jon Krawczinsky of The Athletic, Minnesota executives, including new owner Marc Lore, are signaling a willingness to spend big to keep the franchise’s roster competitive. This includes re-signing executives such as Naz Reid, Julius Randle and Nickeil Alexander-Walker, all of whom could demand increased contracts on the free agent market.
Knowing that Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert already possess massive deals, retaining all three future free agents would put the Wolves well beyond the second tax apron. However, the front office and owners believe they can win the title as it stands, and breaking up this team because of financial concerns could derail it after years of progress achieved through careful construction.
As you can imagine, Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez are in favor of continuity in Minneapolis, and would be willing to break their piggy banks to do so. Despite the colossal taxes involved. In all likelihood, Gobert does not appear to be in an ejector’s seat and should be retained by his managers. Unless the possible re-signing of Naz Reid forces them to strip him of his starting berth.