Julius Randle emerges as top Wolves free agent

Jun 2, 2025 9:53 AM

According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Timberwolves forward Julius Randle has quickly become one of the most compelling potential free agents heading into the 2025 offseason.

His emergence follows a blockbuster trade that sent Karl-Anthony Towns, a five-time All-Star, to the New York Knicks.

In return, Minnesota acquired Randle and sharpshooter Donte DiVincenzo, a move that has reshaped the franchise’s trajectory.

The trade paid immediate dividends, as the Timberwolves reached the Western Conference Finals for the second consecutive year.

Randle played a pivotal role in the team’s postseason success, especially in their series victories over the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors.

His physical scoring style and improved passing out of the post added a new dimension to the Timberwolves’ offense.

The addition of Randle and DiVincenzo also helped balance the roster around All-NBA guard Anthony Edwards, offering more secondary playmaking while increasing the team’s financial flexibility.

This has allowed Minnesota to focus on potentially re-signing key contributors, such as Nickeil Alexander-Walker, who is entering free agency, and Naz Reid, should he decline his player option.

Sources tell Fischer that the Timberwolves ultimately believed Randle was a more complementary piece alongside Edwards than Towns, largely due to his ability to attack the basket, facilitate from the low block, and adapt his game to different roles.

While it took time for the team to fully integrate Rudy Gobert after acquiring him in 2022, there’s optimism that Randle will further elevate his fit with Edwards as their chemistry deepens in a second season together.

However, Randle’s situation remains fluid. He holds a $30.9 million player option for the 2025–26 season, and while Minnesota may value him as a long-term asset, he could also serve as a valuable trade chip.

Should the Timberwolves revisit their interest in acquiring Kevin Durant, a pursuit they reportedly explored at the trade deadline, Randle’s sizable contract could be key in facilitating a major deal.