Insider details what could lead to T-Wolves parting with Towns

Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns (32). Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Insider details what could lead to Timberwolves parting with Karl-Anthony Towns

By Jeff Smith | Last updated Jun 5, 2024 9:29 AM ET

Karl-Anthony Towns had a brutally tough start to the 2024 Western Conference Finals in what eventually was a 4-1 series loss to the Dallas Mavericks.

While the first three games of that series are unlikely to be enough for the team to consider any sort of drastic change, the Timberwolves could find themselves in a bit of trouble with the salary cap this offseason.

While there's been some minor speculation about Towns and his future with the franchise, ESPN's Brian Windhorst pinpointed one scenario that could lead to a potential change.

While speaking on the "Hoop Collective Podcast," Windhorst explained that it could come down to the ownership battle between Glen Taylor and the Marc Lore/Alex Rodriguez group.

Windhorst explained that ownership change in Minnesota could lead to Towns' role being "reevaluated."

"I do not think they would tear the team apart, however, I do think there's a possibility if the ownership change took place that Karl Towns' role would be reevaluated," said Windhorst.

The Timberwolves find themselves roughly $17 million over the projected tax line before re-signing their free agents. They currently have seven players slated to be either unrestricted or restricted free agents, including Kyle Anderson, Jordan McLaughlin and Monte Morris.

Towns checks in with the largest salary-cap hit on the 2024-25 roster at $49.35 million, making up 35 percent of the cap. Rudy Gobert isn't far behind, checking in just north of $43.8 million and 31.08 percent of the cap.

While Towns is one of the pillars of the Timberwolves alongside Anthony Edwards, things could get interesting if an ownership change does take place. This situation could make for one of the NBA's most intriguing storylines when all is said and done.

Jeff Smith

Jeff Smith has extensive experience as a sports writer and editor, including stops at ESPN, FOX Sports, CBS Sports, USA TODAY SMG, and Heavy. Jeff's passion for sports content starts and finishes with writing and he's grateful to be able to work in that field on a daily basis.

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