West Notes: Timberwolves, Grizzlies, Ty Jerome, Clippers, Bradley Beal

Timberwolves president of basketball operations Tim Connelly had the ability to opt out of his contract this summer but chose not to, according to Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic.

When Connelly was hired in 2022, his five-year deal included an opt-out after the second season. He and the Wolves pushed that clause back by a year in 2024 with the ownership situation unsettled.

Now that Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez have assumed majority control, Connelly has decided to stay the course.

He remains under contract for two more years and, assuming ownership is pleased with the job he’s done, could be an extension candidate in 2026.

Memphis banking on Jerome: The Grizzlies devoted their full room exception to Ty Jerome, and the expectation is that he’ll bring more than just shooting.

Damichael Cole of the Memphis Commercial Appeal writes that Memphis needs Jerome’s two-way play-making, composure, and a dose of swagger to help steady a young roster.

Lue says Beal overshadowed: Clippers coach Tyronn Lue appeared on Shannon Sharpe’s Club Shay Shay podcast and said Bradley Beal’s production with the Suns was overlooked.

“He put up unbelievable stats, but was overshadowed as the third option behind Kevin Durant and Devin Booker,” Lue said, via Duane Rankin of The Arizona Republic. “I think by coming here, I think it’s a fresh start and I think he’s going to be great for us.”

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