The Minnesota Timberwolves participated in a three-team trade with the Chicago Bulls and Detroit Pistons, sending veteran guard Mike Conley to Chicago while acquiring salary cap relief. The move clears roster space and reduces the team's luxury tax burden ahead of the NBA trade deadline. Reports suggest this positions Minnesota to pursue Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo.
On Tuesday, February 3, 2026, the Minnesota Timberwolves, Chicago Bulls, and Detroit Pistons completed a three-team trade just before the NBA trade deadline on Thursday, February 5, at 3 p.m. ET. According to ESPN's Shams Charania, the Bulls will receive guard Jaden Ivey from the Pistons and 38-year-old point guard Mike Conley Jr. from the Timberwolves. In return, the Pistons acquire guard Kevin Huerter, forward Dario Šarić, and a 2026 first-round protected pick swap from Minnesota.
The Timberwolves receive no players in the deal, effectively dumping Conley's $10.8 million expiring contract to gain financial flexibility. This reduces Minnesota's luxury tax bill from $24 million to $3.8 million, placing them $2.5 million under the first apron threshold. As a result, the team can now absorb more salary in future trades without exceeding salary cap restrictions. Conley, who joined the Timberwolves at the 2023 trade deadline, provided steady leadership at point guard but saw his role diminish over time.
ESPN's Brian Windhorst questioned the move's purpose, noting its potential as a precursor to a blockbuster deal. Reports indicate Giannis Antetokounmpo, the two-time NBA MVP sidelined 4-6 weeks with a calf injury, has mutual interest in joining Anthony Edwards in Minnesota. Among serious suitors for Antetokounmpo are the New York Knicks, Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, and Timberwolves. However, Minnesota lacks draft picks, so the Conley trade opens pathways for multi-team arrangements.
The Timberwolves have also discussed acquiring James Harden from the Los Angeles Clippers, per ClutchPoints. If no major splash occurs, the deal still saves ownership significant costs. This transaction highlights front offices prioritizing roster maneuvering over sentimentality amid aggressive superstar pursuits.
