Timberwolves rumors: Minnesota’s contingency plan amid ‘growing fear’ in free agency

The Minnesota Timberwolves, busy since their Western Conference Finals exit, recently signed backup center Naz Reid to a five-year, $125 million contract extension. However, concerns exist about another key player potentially leaving in free agency.

NBA insider Jake Fischer reported a "growing fear" within the organization that guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker could depart via free agency. Alexander-Walker, coming off consistent playoff performances and valued as a "three and D" player, is expected to attract significant interest on the open market.

Should Alexander-Walker leave, the Timberwolves might look internally to sophomores Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr. for backcourt help. Dillingham offers scoring and playmaking but needs defensive improvement, while Shannon Jr. showed flashes during the playoffs despite limited regular-season minutes.

Nevertheless, Fischer's report indicates Minnesota is also expected to explore external free agency and trade options to upgrade their backcourt. This potential search is driven partly by the possible loss of Alexander-Walker and the aging of veteran guard Mike Conley, whose performance is seen as declining.

NBA free agency is officially set to begin on Monday evening.