The breakout Timberwolves star of the playoffs they’re likely to lose this summer

The Minnesota Timberwolves will face a difficult decision this offseason regarding one of their best players in the playoffs. Nickeil Alexander-Walker has been a massive help to the Timberwolves in the postseason. In the Western Conference Finals, he is averaging 15 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists on 51.2/48/80 shooting splits.

But unfortunately for Minnesota, he may not return next season.

Minnesota may lose key player this offseason

As Alexander-Walker becomes a free agent this summer, his impressive performance combined with a weak free agency class make him likely to receive a lucrative contract from another team.

What makes him so important to the Wolves - his offensive skills and defensive versatility - is unfortunately exactly why they may not be able to afford to keep him. He’s been a crucial part of their success, but Minnesota is already over the second tax apron and need to prioritize re-signing other key players like Julius Randle and Naz Reid. If they do sign NAW to a new contract, they risk losing Reid.

The Timberwolves are in a tough spot, but it may make more sense for them to replace Alexander-Walker with a younger, cheaper, internal player like rookies Terrence Shannon Jr. or Jaylen Clark. Even if they were to bid on NAW, cap expert Bobby Marks notes that they would likely be outbid anyway.

So while Alexander-Walker has played a significant role in the Timberwolves’ current success, the financial constraints and roster priorities make him unlikely to return to Minnesota next season.

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