Timberwolves expected to cut ties with 1st-round pick after Julius Randle $100 million contract

The Minnesota Timberwolves invested in the future of their frontcourt.

They gave big contract extensions to both Naz Reid and Julius Randle.

But that means their backcourt is getting a little lighter.

According to The Athletic's Jon Krawczynski, Nickeil Alexander-Walker will be shown the door after Randle's contract finalized a lot of the money that Minnesota has to spend.

NAW could be a priority free agent for someone given his impressive athleticism and defense being paired with growing offensive ability.

In 2024-25, Alexander-Walker played all 82 regular season games and averaged 9.4 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.7 assists. He also shot 38.1% from 3-point range.

MORE: Lakers trading LeBron James seems to be a door left open

Alexander-Walker has played six seasons in the NBA after being a first-round pick of the Brooklyn Nets. He never suited up for the Nets after being traded immediately to the Pelicans. He also played in Utah before coming to the Timberwolves.

A cousin of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Alexander-Walker is 6-foot-5 with length and will turn 27 in September. He's in his prime, and he'll try to take advantage of his talent and timing with one big free agent contract.

MORE NBA NEWS:

• Thunder cut ties with former 1st-round pick in cruelest trade
• The latest on Bronny James
• LeBron James' decision means Lakers have to solve 1 key need
• Cavs' Lonzo Ball trade is brilliant for 3 reasons
• Jonathan Kuminga wants a lot of money
• Celtics 'laughed' at Raptors' trade offer for Derrick White