Timberwolves predicted to pass on LeBron James, make monster trade for $90M 2-time NBA champion

May 11, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the first half in game four of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

The Minnesota Timberwolves are the latest team to enter the LeBron James sweepstakes, and they appear to have significant momentum in their pursuit of the four-time NBA champion. James is currently evaluating all of his options for the upcoming season.

The Timberwolves acquired LaMelo Ball earlier this summer to further strengthen their roster. Now, they have formally presented their pitch to James.

“The Timberwolves are ramping up their push for LeBron James, sources tell The Athletic. The pitch: Team w/Ant, LaMelo, Jaden, Rudy in championship-starved Minnesota to go after a title that could cement his case for the throne” The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski posted.

However, there is still a chance Minnesota does not land him and is forced to pivot. In a mock trade by Sports Illustrated’s Gray Deyo, the Timberwolves instead pursue Kevin Durant if they miss out on James.

“The Timberwolves have been a team floated as interested in acquiring LeBron James in free agency. If that fails, a pivot to Durant could make some sense. There would be some salary difficulties in mixing and matching a way to bring Durant aboard, but a deal is possible,” Deyo wrote.

While a trade involving Durant away from Houston may seem unlikely, there have been growing rumors that the Rockets could explore moving him for the right return.

“Whether or not the Rockets look to continue their partnership with Durant is the big question at large, especially since they don't view him as an “untouchable” talent in trade talks on their roster. Houston viewed the opportunity to acquire Durant as a way to upgrade from Jalen Green and bridge the gaps in their lineup to contend in the West, but by no means was this addition viewed as a long-term commitment,” NBA insider Brett Siegel wrote.

Durant would make missing out on James far less damaging and would immediately elevate Minnesota’s offensive firepower. It is remarkable the level of opportunity the Timberwolves have this offseason, even after acquiring LaMelo Ball.

Durant is currently on a $90 million deal with the Rockets and still has two years remaining on his contract. A move to Minnesota may not be guaranteed, but it is becoming an increasingly realistic possibility—and one that could ultimately prove more impactful than landing James.

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