Interesting news: “There is a growing belief that Julius Randle will be next in striking a long-term agreement to sign with the Timberwolves”…. More from Jake ⬇️

The dominoes began to fall this week when the Timberwolves secured Naz Reid with a massive five-year, $125 million extension That deal came mere hours after Reid opted out of a $15 million player option—signaling Minnesota’s intent to solidify its deep bench and frontcourt depth.

Now, with Rudy Gobert already locked in via a three-year, $105 million extension, the Timberwolves have positioned themselves financially to potentially re-sign both Randle and Reid, keeping their core intact

📈 Randle’s Role & Value in Minnesota

Randle arrived in Minnesota via a blockbuster trade from the New York Knicks in October 2024. Although his first season had uneven stretches, he found his footing late—especially in the playoffs. He averaged 18.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.7 assists during the 2024–25 regular season, then 21.70/4.9 APG over 15 postseason games, shooting 50.2/38.5/88.0 splits

Beyond stats, Randle provides a dynamic inside-outside presence that meshes well with Anthony Edwards’ explosiveness and Gobert’s rim protection. His ability to space the floor and create for others has become a vital piece of Minnesota’s rotation .

💡 Why the Contract Push?

Timberwolves General Manager Tim Connelly and ownership (now officially led by Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez appear committed to maintaining late-season chemistry. Securing Randle provides several benefits:

• Continuity: Re-committing Randle avoids disrupting a lineup that just reached back-to-back Western Conference Finals.
• Cap Strategy: His extension could be structured to keep the team under the NBA’s second apron, preserving flexibility .
• Strategic Fit: Randle’s departure would necessitate depth moves—his stay keeps the roster stable.

💰 Financial Implications

Randle’s 2025–26 player option is valued at $30.9 million. If he declines that in favor of a multi-year deal, the team could create subtle cap reshuffling. It may also reduce the chance of re-signing Nickeil Alexander-Walker, who’s expected to enter free agency and fill a rotation role next season

However, with Naz Reid’s deal already in place and Gobert signed, some limits on flexibility exist. Still, the Timberwolves clearly view Randle as worthy of investment—likened to Reid and Gobert in terms of foundational value

🌍 Broader Team Strategy

Minnesota is entering a win-now phase. With a cohesive core headlined by Edwards, backed by Gobert, Reid, and Randle, the Wolves are built for sustained success. Extending Randle signals a shift towards:

• Stability over shakeups: Keeping core intact instead of potentially shopping him for a role player or draft assets.
• Maintaining momentum: After reaching consecutive conference finals, continuity prevents regression.

The only other major question hanging is whether Alexander-Walker can secure a follow-up deal—his departure is anticipated if cap space tightens .

📰 What Jake Fischer Is Saying

Fischer reiterated that Randle is “next in line” after Reid. He cited growing confidence in internal alignment between the front office, coaching staff, and ownership on Randle’s fit.

This aligns with commentary across outlets—RealGM’s Wiretap also notes widespread belief that Randle will either pick up his player option then extend or outright sign a new long-term pact that starts in 2026

🏀 Minnesota’s Context This Summer

Let’s break down the current frontcourt salary commitments (projected post-deal):

This trio would command around $70–75 million—a heavy but manageable portion of their cap.

Supporting cast includes:

• Anthony Edwards – locked in
• Jaden McDaniels, Donte DiVincenzo, and others under contract
• Likely departures or mid-tier replacements, like Alexander-Walker

Any leftover space is earmarked for depth and potential moves in free agency.

🧩 The Bigger Picture

Randle’s extension would confirm Minnesota’s core. Here’s why it matters:

1. Competition readiness: Keeps them firmly in the top 3–4 pecking order in the Western Conference.
2. Market stability: Retaining local and national audiences by maintaining recognizable talent.
3. Future flexibility: Though top-heavy, smart contract structuring can allow future moves.

✅ Final Word

Jake Fischer’s insight is clear: “There is a growing belief that Julius Randle will be next in striking a long-term agreement to sign with the Timberwolves.”

Building on this momentum, Minnesota looks to solidify its identity as a Championship-level contender. With Randle, Gobert, Edwards, and Reid anchoring the roster, the Timberwolves are betting on continuity. If the contract comes to pass, it will not only close a long-standing rumor but also elevate Minnesota’s aspirations for playoff supremacy.

— More NBA insights from Jake Fischer below.