Minnesota Timberwolves, Free Agent 'Far Apart' in Discussions

After two seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves, it seems likely that forward Kyle Anderson will play for a new team next season. According to The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski, the Timberwolves and Anderson, who is an unrestricted free agent, are “far apart” in contract discussions.

“Tim Connelly and Chris Finch have said they want Kyle Anderson back. But as teams started negotiating with free agents on Sunday evening, it became clear that the two sides were far apart, according to team and league sources. A reunion has not been ruled out, but there were little signs of progress in the early going.”

Anderson joined the Timberwolves as a free agent in 2022. During his time with the team, he has averaged 7.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game.

Previously, Anderson made it clear he wanted to return to Minnesota this summer. However, he also noted that he was unsure of where he would end up

“I don’t know where I’ll be… but obviously want to be back here.”

Minnesota Timberwolves, Free Agent “Far Apart” in Discussions

Timberwolves Were Reportedly Concerned About Kyle Anderson Leaving in Free Agency

A few weeks ago, Michael Scotto of HoopsHype reported that there was “some concern” that Minnesota would not be able to re-sign Anderson this offseason.

“With Timberwolves forward Kyle Anderson entering free agency and some concern the team won’t be able to re-sign him, Minnesota has been linked to Kansas forward Johnny Furphy in consecutive HoopsHype aggregate mock draft polls.”

Additionally, the Timberwolves did not select Furphy in the 2024 NBA Draft, despite HoopsHype’s mock draft. Instead, he went to the Indiana Pacers after the team acquired him from the San Antonio Spurs in the second round.

Furthermore, according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, “the Timberwolves are prepared to lose” Anderson this summer.

“The only bit of news that emerged related to the Wolves revolved around forward Kyle Anderson, with Yahoo Sports reporting that Anderson was seeking up to the full midlevel exception in contract talks, and the Wolves were preparing for life without Anderson as a result.”

Fischer’s report echoes what Scotto had previously said. It is not a guarantee Anderson will leave Minnesota. However, it seems more likely than not at this point.

The Last Word on Kyle Anderson

Anderson has been a solid player for the Timberwolves in his short stint. If he does end up leaving this offseason, it is likely he would have a lot of interest from other contending teams. Additionally, from Minnesota’s perspective, they must find a way to replace Anderson in the rotation. One name that has come up in rumors is Joe Ingles.