NBA rules allow teams to dip below 14 standard contracts for only short stretches, forcing three clubs to add players before week’s end.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Minnesota fell to 13 standard contracts on Feb. 3 after sending Mike Conley to the Bulls in a three-team deal that also involved Detroit. The league’s two-week grace period expires Monday, Feb. 17, requiring the Timberwolves to sign a 14th player the same day.
The organization plans to bring back Conley, who was rerouted to Charlotte and waived. Because he cleared waivers, NBA rules permit him to rejoin Minnesota. The veteran point guard is expected to sign Tuesday, Feb. 18, after enjoying a brief break during All-Star week.
Denver Nuggets
Denver dropped to 13 standard contracts on Feb. 5 when Hunter Tyson was dealt to Brooklyn. The Nuggets have until Thursday, Feb. 19, to return to the minimum.
The obvious candidate is two-way forward Spencer Jones. Jones reached his 50-game active limit before the break but suffered a concussion in that game, delaying his promotion. If cleared, he is likely to receive a standard deal before the deadline. Should his recovery take longer, Denver could sign a veteran to a 10-day contract until Jones is ready.
Boston Celtics
Boston’s deadline-day activity sent out Anfernee Simons, Xavier Tillman Sr., Chris Boucher and Josh Minott while bringing back only Nikola Vučević. Although Amari Williams was elevated from a two-way contract on Feb. 5, the Celtics have carried just 12 standard contracts since then and must add two players by Feb. 19.
The club aims to stay below the luxury-tax line, making two-way guards Max Shulga and John Tonje the most cap-efficient options. One scenario has Boston converting Shulga, then signing Tonje and a veteran to separate 10-day deals, allowing the roster to shrink back to 12 once those contracts expire.
All three teams must complete their moves this week to remain in compliance with NBA roster regulations.
Source: Hoops Rumors
