Gilbert Arenas Loves The Timberwolves’ Roster Flexibility originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Minnesota Timberwolves had a strong start to their 2025 offseason after extending Naz Reid to a five-year contract and Julius Randle to a three-year deal. This was a superb decision from the front office led by Tim Connelly.
Sadly, they had to let go of Nickeil Alexander-Walker, who went to the Atlanta Hawks. Bench players Luka Garza and Josh Minott also left the team, as they both signed with the Boston Celtics.
The offseason is long, so the Timberwolves could still make some moves. However, they have set themselves up for a good future by re-signing their two coveted free agents.
Most of the NBA community was puzzled about Naz Reid’s contract, as some people thought it was an overpay for a sixth man, while some felt it was a bargain for the Timberwolves. Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas is part of the latter crowd, which is why he’s also high on the flexibility of the contracts.
Related: Naz Reid’s New Contract With The Timberwolves Was Influential Across The League
The Timberwolves Have Flexibility In The Long-Term Future
Minnesota is doing well with the flexibility they have with the current roster. The roster is built around Anthony Edwards and maximizing his talent for the foreseeable future.
That is why the players in a similar age bracket to him are on similar contracts. Those players are Reid and Jaden McDaniels. Reid might be the sixth man at the moment, but his five-year contract means he is a long-term piece who could transition into being the starting center or even power forward if Randle parts ways with the team.
NAZ REID HAS RE-SIGNED WITH THE MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES
5 YEARS, $125 MILLION pic.twitter.com/1Ymll7Og6b
— Wolves Lead (@TWolvesLead) June 28, 2025
Randle’s three-year deal is two guaranteed years with a player option in the third season. The Timberwolves could easily move Randle in the future, and be set with Reid starting in his place. In the meantime, Randle is still excellent for Minnesota, so his contract is fantastic.
Arenas echoes that sentiment, as he believes flexibility is why he rates his move so highly.
“They can get rid of Julius, get some pieces for him, and get Naz Reid who can start with his contract. You’re talking about five years,” Arenas said on Gil’s Arena. “They have some wiggle room to stay competing. It keeps them competing, so it’s a good deal for the Wolves.”
The Timberwolves Have A Good Foundation To Build On
With Edwards leading the way at 23, the Timberwolves are in good hands. The core is still young and on par with the defending champions Oklahoma City Thunder. That is their primary competitor, and going toe to toe with them is possible.
As long as Connelly and the front office keep making smart decisions, they could usurp the Thunder in the Western Conference Finals. The Timberwolves are close to reaching the NBA Finals. They just need more savvy moves with their guard depth and development.
NAZ FREAKING REID. pic.twitter.com/w6jp4FxtbT
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) April 27, 2025
They have a bright group of young players like Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr., who could be potential contributors. Connelly and head coach Chris Finch must find the balance, and if they do, this team could surprise the rest of the NBA.
Related: Timberwolves President Tim Connelly Gets Full Support From Rodriguez And Lore
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 6, 2025, where it first appeared.