​LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during a 117-108 Lakers win over the Miami Heat at Crypto.com Arena on January 15, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) Getty. In Minnesota, Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert embraced after their 114-109 victory against the San Antonio Spurs in Game Four of the Second Round of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs at Target Center on May 10, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Note to user: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, the user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) Getty.
The Minnesota Timberwolves are hearing a lot about the appeal of reunions. Yet they have still been busy stacking their chips in hopes of signing the NBA’s hottest free agent. For more than a week, the NBA world has been waiting with bated breath for LeBron James to make his free agency decision. After James told the Los Angeles Lakers he would not be returning for a ninth season, rumors swirled about where the league’s all-time leading scorer would land next. The Wolves have emerged as one of the notable suitors — along with the Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Golden State Warriors — prominently featured in the free-agent scramble. Minnesota has intensified its recruitment, joining several other franchises in the pursuit. So, what will James decide to do?
LeBron James, Miami Heat. LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during a 117-108 Lakers win over the Miami Heat at Crypto.com Arena on January 15, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images). If James does decide to join the Wolves, how much can he sign for? According to ESPN NBA insiders Brian Windhorst and Bobby Marks, the Timberwolves are limited in the financial package they can offer James, but that does not diminish Minnesota’s chances of landing the four-time MVP. “The Timberwolves are $4.4 million below the second apron hard cap and have only the $3.9 million veterans minimum exception to offer James,” Marks wrote.
If this were eight years ago, the Wolves would have been out of the running for James almost instantly. But this free agency period is truly unique, largely because the 22-time All-Star’s decision appears to be driven by factors beyond straightforward salary figures. Reports indicate that James’ move will be influenced by more than money, and he isn’t rushing to decide. He doesn’t seem concerned about the salary cap or the exact payroll slot his next team could offer him. Wherever James signs, it could be on a veteran minimum deal or a midlevel exception.
San Antonio Spurs vs. Minnesota Timberwolves — Game Four. MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – MAY 10: Anthony Edwards #5 and Rudy Gobert #27 of the Minnesota Timberwolves embrace after the 114-109 victory against the San Antonio Spurs in Game Four of the Second Round of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs at Target Center on May 10, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.