Timberwolves’ Connelly Stays Put; Mavericks Mull Washington Extension; Grizzlies Count on Jerome; Lue Sees Fresh Start for Beal
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August 28, 2025 — A busy week around the Western Conference features front-office decisions in Minnesota, contract talks in Dallas, roster expectations in Memphis, and optimism in Los Angeles.
Connelly Declines Opt-Out in Minnesota
Timberwolves president of basketball operations Tim Connelly chose not to exercise the opt-out clause in his contract this summer, according to The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski. Connelly signed a five-year agreement in 2022 that allowed him to leave after year two, later delaying that option by one season while Minnesota’s ownership situation was unresolved. With Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez now holding majority control, Connelly will remain under contract through the 2026-27 campaign. An extension could be discussed in 2026 if ownership is satisfied with his performance.
Extension Clock Ticking for P.J. Washington
P.J. Washington becomes eligible for a contract extension on Friday, and league sources told The Dallas Morning News that a deal with the Mavericks is considered likely. Exact figures have not been finalized, but the forward can sign for up to nearly $89 million over four years.
Grizzlies Look to Ty Jerome for Shooting and Swagger
The Grizzlies invested their full room exception in veteran guard Ty Jerome, and the franchise expects him to provide high-level shooting, two-way playmaking, and on-court confidence, reports The Commercial Appeal.
Lue Predicts Big Role for Bradley Beal in L.A.
During an appearance on Shannon Sharpe’s “Club Shay Shay” podcast, Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue said new acquisition Bradley Beal produced “unbelievable” numbers with Phoenix but was overshadowed as a third option behind Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. After signing with Los Angeles following a buyout from the Suns, Beal is expected to take on a larger role with the Clippers.
Source: Hoops Rumors
