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By Justin Grasso
Contributing Sports Writer
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When the Minnesota Timberwolves got involved in a three-team trade with the Detroit Pistons and the Chicago Bulls, they were the only team to make it out without any players acquired. The Timberwolves included Mike Conley in exchange for cash considerations.
From a business standpoint, the Timberwolves made a logical decision. Conley is making over $10 million at 38 and hasn’t been in his usual productive role with the Timberwolves. Losing the veteran’s presence hurts, but the Timberwolves had to shift some funds around.
While the Timberwolves cut ties with Conley this week, a return to Minnesota isn’t out of the question for the veteran guard. The superstar guard Anthony Edwards made it clear that he would certainly give that move a stamp of approval.
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“Mike’s my guy,” Edwards told reporters on Wednesday night. “He’s like an OG to me. Always helped me when I was struggling on the court. Great conversation off the court, just a great dude overall. So hopefully we can get him back. I don't really know how it go, but I keep hearing he can come back, so hopefully he will. And I hope you see this. We want you back, Mike. You know we miss him.”
Conley wrapped up a four-year tenure with the Utah Jazz in 2023 to land with the Timberwolves. Upon his arrival, he was a full-time starter with a key role. He remained with the Timberwolves through 2026. The 2025-2026 season was the first time the Timberwolves were committed to having Conley come off the bench.
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In 44 games, he shot 32 percent from the field to produce 4.4 points per game. He also notched 2.9 assists per game
Once Conley was traded to a rebuilding Bulls team, it became clear he could be a trade or buyout candidate. The latter move would’ve given Conley the freedom to sign somewhere else, but the Timberwolves would’ve been off the table.
As expected, the Bulls moved on from the veteran guard, including him in the Wednesday afternoon trade to the Charlotte Hornets. Once again, Conley’s future is in question. The Hornets may be thriving currently, but they don’t seem to have a need for a player like Conley at this time. He is reportedly a buyout candidate, with eligibility to sign with the Timberwolves again after getting moved twice.
With Anthony Edwards being the face of the franchise, the young guard has authority within the organization. He doesn’t call the personnel shots, but if he feels like Conley is a valuable piece, there’s no question the Timberwolves should consider bringing the 19-year veteran back on a more team-friendly deal.
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