The Minnesota Timberwolves’ 2024-25 season ended in the Western Conference Finals, but General Manager Tim Connelly is already eyeing the future. “It’s been a really fun year,” Connelly said at a recent press conference, reflecting on the team’s 49-33 record and back-to-back Final Four appearances.
Despite falling to the Oklahoma City Thunder in five games, Connelly remains optimistic. “We’re pretty proud of the year we had,” he noted, emphasizing the team’s growth and maturity.
A key focus this offseason is roster retention, particularly with Julius Randle and Naz Reid. “The goal is to keep everybody,” Connelly stated, highlighting the players’ love for the team and community. “When the player wants to be here and the team wants to have him back, there’s always room for optimism.”
Connelly also addressed the team’s financial strategy under the NBA’s restrictive second-apron rules. “It gets so punitive,” he said, noting the challenges of roster flexibility. “We want to be as nimble as possible.”
The blockbuster trade that sent Karl-Anthony Towns to the Knicks for Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, and others was a win-win, according to Connelly. “It was fun to watch,” he said of Towns’ success in New York. “I think both front offices would’ve taken [a conference finals appearance] last year.”
Anthony Edwards remains the cornerstone of Minnesota’s future. “The sky’s the limit,” Connelly said of the young star. “We think he’ll be one of the best players of all time.”
Turnovers, particularly in clutch moments, were a sore spot in the playoffs. “Some of it’s just natural maturation,” Connelly explained, pointing to Edwards and Jaden McDaniels’ growth as key to addressing the issue.
The Timberwolves hold the 17th and 31st picks in the upcoming draft, and Connelly sees flexibility. “If we can add a clear rotation piece using those picks, we’d be all over it,” he said. Young players like Rob Dillingham also have a chance to step up.
Connelly praised coach Chris Finch’s adaptability. “His ability to identify how this group can best play at a high level together is as good as anybody,” he said.
As the offseason begins, Connelly’s focus is clear: build around Edwards, retain core players, and navigate financial constraints. “We’re either going to win or lose with Ant,” he said. With a passionate fanbase and a competitive roster, the Timberwolves are poised for another deep playoff run in 2025-26.
