The Minnesota Timberwolves may not be done with Mike Conley Jr. just yet.
After trading the veteran guard earlier this week in a three-team deal that sent him to the Chicago Bulls, the door is suddenly open for a reunion - and it could happen sooner than you'd think.
Conley’s stay in Chicago didn’t last long. On Wednesday, he was on the move again, this time heading to the Charlotte Hornets in a three-team trade that also involved the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Here’s how the pieces moved: Charlotte landed Conley and Coby White from the Bulls, plus a future second-round pick from OKC. Chicago received Collin Sexton from Charlotte, Ousmane Dieng from the Thunder, and three second-rounders from the Hornets.
Oklahoma City rounded things out by acquiring veteran big man Mason Plumlee from Charlotte.
Now here’s where it gets interesting - Conley may never suit up for the Hornets. According to multiple reports, he’s a strong buyout candidate in Charlotte, and if that happens, Minnesota could be right back in the mix.
A potential buyout would open the door for Conley to rejoin the Timberwolves on a veteran minimum deal. And that’s not just a feel-good reunion - it could carry real financial upside. A minimum contract would help Minnesota duck under the NBA’s first luxury tax apron, giving the front office a little more room to maneuver as the playoff race heats up.
Conley spent the last three-plus seasons in Minnesota, carving out a reputation as a steadying force in the backcourt. His leadership, playmaking, and ability to run the offense with poise made him a valuable presence both on and off the floor. For a Timberwolves team with postseason aspirations and a roster full of young talent, bringing back a veteran like Conley - especially on a team-friendly deal - could be a savvy move.
With the trade deadline looming on Thursday, the clock is ticking. But if the buyout happens quickly, don’t be surprised if Minnesota wastes no time in bringing Conley back into the fold.