Karl-Anthony Towns
The Minnesota Timberwolves have the West’s top record heading into the All-Star break. With that comes expectations of a potential Finals run.
If the Timberwolves wobble in the postseason, questions will be asked and expectations may have to be reset. As if that wasn’t enough, they are also climbing towards one of the most expensive payrolls in the NBA.
Anthony Edwards has grabbed the reigns of the franchise and his $204 million extension kicks in next season. So does Karl-Anthony Towns’ new deal, which comes with a $13 million salary bump next season and will pay him as much as $61 million in 2027-28.
Those around the league question whether the Wolves will be willing to pay this roster and the massive luxury-tax bull associated with it.
If they do break it up, Towns appears to be the most likely piece to be traded (it’s not going to be Edwards, and Rudy Gobert wouldn’t bring back enough, plus his contract expires in 2026.
Towns is the perfect theoretical fit next to Bam Adebayo in Miami’s frontcourt. He spaces the floor, provides size and rebounding and can lead the team in scoring on any given night.