Connelly: Timberwolves Believe Roster Is Strong Selling Point for LeBron
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MINNEAPOLIS — President of basketball operations Tim Connelly said Tuesday the Minnesota Timberwolves are confident their current roster and recent success make the franchise an attractive destination for LeBron James and any other free agent considering a new team.
Speaking at a press conference to introduce offseason acquisitions LaMelo Ball and Josh Green, Connelly emphasized that Minnesota’s pitch centers on the organization’s trajectory rather than elaborate recruiting tactics. “I like who we are, and we’re pretty proud of who we are,” he told reporters. “When you look at our team, it’s hard not to be excited about what we have.”
The Timberwolves, an NBA member since 1989, have reached the playoffs in five consecutive seasons. Over the past three years they have captured five postseason series and advanced to the Western Conference finals twice.
Minnesota’s offseason has included trading power forwards Julius Randle and Naz Reid, re-signing midseason arrival Ayo Dosunmu, and adding veteran free agent Trey Lyles. Connelly acknowledged the resulting void at power forward, calling James “the perfect fit” for that spot.
“We have the best coach. We have amazing fans,” Connelly said. “In the last couple years, our success has been as good as anybody outside of the guys who’ve won it all.” He added that the organization is working to “change the narrative” surrounding the franchise’s perception league-wide.
According to team officials, Minnesota recognizes it remains a long shot to land the four-time MVP but believes James and agent Rich Paul are giving the club legitimate consideration.
The Wolves currently carry 13 players on standard contracts and sit roughly $4 million below the NBA’s second tax apron hard cap. If James signs elsewhere, the front office is expected to target another minimum-salary forward to round out the 14th roster spot.
Source: Hoops Rumors
