The idea of Giannis Antetokounmpo suiting up for the Minnesota Timberwolves might’ve sounded like a long shot just a week ago. But in the NBA, things change fast - and when a player of Giannis’ caliber shows interest in teaming up with a rising star like Anthony Edwards, teams start picking up the phone.
According to recent reports, the Timberwolves are doing more than just listening. They’re actively working the phones and, per Brian Windhorst, getting “aggressive” in their pursuit of the two-time MVP.
That word - “aggressive” - carries weight, especially with a front office led by Tim Connelly, who’s shown he’s not afraid to swing big. Just ask Utah about the Rudy Gobert trade.
Or consider the fact that Minnesota has explored deals involving Karl-Anthony Towns and even kicked the tires on Kevin Durant at one point. This is a team that’s not content with standing pat.
Now, the Wolves don’t have the most enticing trade package on the surface - they can only offer one first-round pick swap at the moment - but they’re not letting that stop them. Windhorst also noted that Minnesota is actively recruiting third and fourth teams to help sweeten the deal. That’s the kind of maneuvering we typically see from franchises who believe they’re close to something big.
And here’s where it gets even more interesting: Giannis reportedly wants to play with Edwards. That’s not something you can fake or ignore.
When a superstar makes it clear he’s open to a destination, that team gains a serious edge in the bidding war. Why?
Because Giannis holds leverage. He’s got a $62.8 million player option in 2027, which means any team trading for him needs to feel confident he’ll stick around.
Minnesota already has that assurance.
From a basketball perspective, it makes a lot of sense. Edwards is just 24 and still ascending.
Pairing him with Giannis would give the Greek Freak a longer runway to chase that elusive second championship. It’s a different pitch than what a team like Golden State might offer, where the window is closing fast.
That’s also why Giannis is reportedly intrigued by the idea of playing with Tyrese Maxey in Philly. But the Sixers, for now, seem unwilling to part with VJ Edgecombe, which limits their ability to make a serious play.
So where does that leave Minnesota? Still on the outside looking in - for now.
But this isn’t a one-week window. If the Bucks decide not to move Giannis before the trade deadline, the Timberwolves, like other teams, will gain access to more first-round picks this summer.
Depending on how their season wraps up, Connelly and company could come back even more motivated - and better equipped - to make a real run at Giannis.
It’s easy to overlook the Timberwolves in a field that could include bigger-market teams or franchises with more draft capital. But don’t sleep on them. They’ve got a front office that’s proven it won’t shy away from bold moves, a young star who’s already earned the respect of one of the league’s biggest names, and a timeline that aligns perfectly with Giannis’ next chapter.
Whether it happens now or in the offseason, Minnesota is in the mix - and they’re not just window shopping.