Report: Timberwolves’ plan for Julius Randle after Naz Reid signing revealed

The Minnesota Timberwolves are reportedly keeping their checkbook on the table for Julius Randle.

On Friday, the T-Wolves committed over $100 million to keep center Naz Reid. The former Sixth Man of the Year declined his player option for next season to sign a five-year deal that could keep him in Minnesota through the 2029-2030 campaign.

With Reid and Rudy Gobert making a combined $60 million in annual salary beginning next season, questions were raised about the likelihood of Randle staying. The All-Star forward has a $30.9 million player option for next season that he is expected to decline in search of a longer-term deal.

According to NBA reporter Jake Fischer, there is “growing belief” that Randle is next in line to land a long-term pact with the Timberwolves. If Randle signs a deal in the $30 million range, Minnesota would be allotting around $90 million to their three primary big men.

Randle had a solid first season with the Timberwolves. He took a step back offensively behind Anthony Edwards, but still posted averages of 18.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.7 assists across 69 games. He buoyed the T-Wolves’ offense whenever Edwards wasn’t on the floor, similar to what Karl-Anthony Towns did for the team in seasons past.

Fischer also reported that veteran wing Nickeil Alexander-Walker would be the odd man out if Randle does return. The two-way guard has been linked to the Los Angeles Clippers, Atlanta Hawks, Orlando Magic, and Detroit Pistons.