Randle's Extension Ends Alexander-Walker's Time In Minnesota

The Minnesota Timberwolves and Julius Randle have agreed to a three-year deal worth $100 million. The third year will be a player option Randle could opt into during the 2027-28 season. 

With this extension and Naz Reid's new deal, the Timberwolves have retained two of their players. Unfortunately, this leaves Nickeil Alexander-Walker in a tough spot, as he is likely leaving the team after this contract.

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Timberwolves president of basketball operations Tim Connelly always wanted to bring the trio back. Unfortunately, it looks like bringing back Randle and Reid on bigger contracts means Alexander-Walker is the odd man out. 

Retaining Alexander-Walker would require the non-taxpayer mid-level exception, which the Timberwolves cannot give. They want to stay under the second apron to avoid the repeater penalties on roster construction, and Alexander-Walker would bring that problem up for them.

The Timberwolves Are Losing A Vital Player

With Alexander-Walker exiting, it is a significant loss for the team. He was one of the most reliable guards on the team, as he could handle the ball, but he could also defend at the highest level. 

At the same time, he was always unafraid of the big moments. He could knock down a big three-pointer, but he can also lock down on the opposite end. He will be missed in Minnesota, especially with how much he stepped up during the Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The team that signs him will be lucky to get him because he is the quintessential modern-day guard. He will be a bargain for any team that gives him the non-taxpayer mid-level exception. 

The teams who are looking to get him are the Detroit Pistons and the Atlanta Hawks. Detroit is likely the favorite, especially after the news of Malik Beasley's gambling controversy came out.

Alexander-Walker's Exit Opens The Path For Other Players

Now that Alexander-Walker is on his way out after the Randle extension, more opportunities are available. The two players who benefit the most are Terrence Shannon Jr. and Jaylen Clark. 

They are promising guards who could do the same thing as Alexander-Walker but much cheaper. At the same time, they still have the potential to tap into with their youth.

Rob Dillingham could also get some burn with Alexander-Walker's departure, as he could slot alongside Anthony Edwards in the backcourt.

Of course, Donte DiVincenzo is still the top guard off the bench, but you can expect those three players to stand out to head coach Chris Finch, who took a liking to those players during the 2024-25 season.