Julius Randle’s Future Uncertain as Timberwolves Eye Trade Deadline Moves

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Julius Randle, the three-time All-Star forward, faces an uncertain future with the Minnesota Timberwolves as the NBA trade deadline approaches. Randle, who is averaging 18.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in his first season with the team, is unlikely to decline his $30.9 million player option this offseason. However, league sources suggest the Timberwolves may prioritize re-signing Naz Reid and Nickeil Alexander-Walker while pursuing a younger point guard, potentially making Randle expendable.

The Timberwolves shocked the NBA last year by trading Karl-Anthony Towns to the New York Knicks for Randle and Donte DiVincenzo. The move was largely financial, aimed at avoiding the league’s restrictive second apron by the 2025-26 season. While Randle has provided offensive firepower, the team reportedly prefers a more defensive-minded forward, leading to speculation about his departure.

In a potential three-team trade scenario, the Timberwolves could acquire Lonzo Ball from the Chicago Bulls and Buddy Hield from the Golden State Warriors. Ball, known for his defensive prowess, is on an expiring contract, while Hield’s $9.2 million salary next season is significantly cheaper than Randle’s option. The deal would also give Minnesota a look at young wing Julian Phillips.

Tim Connelly, the Timberwolves’ president of basketball operations, has strong ties to the Bulls’ front office, having previously worked with executive vice president Artūras Karnišovas in Denver. This connection could facilitate a deal that would free up nearly $53 million for Minnesota to re-sign Reid, Alexander-Walker, and potentially Ball, while building around Anthony Edwards, Rudy Gobert, and Jaden McDaniels.

For the Bulls, acquiring Randle and Jonathan Kuminga from the Warriors would represent a significant shift. Randle, a proven scorer and rebounder, would provide a much-needed upgrade over Patrick Williams, who has struggled this season. Kuminga, a restricted free agent this offseason, would add youth and potential to Chicago’s roster. The Bulls would also receive Luka Garza and Kevon Looney in the deal, bolstering their frontcourt depth.

The Warriors, meanwhile, would address their need for a true starting center by acquiring Nikola Vučević from the Bulls. Vučević, under contract through 2025-26, would provide stability in the paint alongside Steph Curry and Draymond Green. Golden State would also gain Patrick Williams, whose size and athleticism would complement their core players.

As the Feb. 6 trade deadline looms, Randle’s future remains in flux. While his talent is undeniable, the Timberwolves’ financial constraints and strategic priorities may ultimately lead to his departure. Whether he lands in Chicago, Golden State, or elsewhere, Randle’s next chapter could reshape the NBA landscape.