Timberwolves Execute Three-Team Trade, Positioning for Celtics Pursuit
Insiders report the franchise intends to utilise the new cap space to target Boston Celtics guard Derrick White, though the Celtics have so far rejected Minnesota’s advances.
The Minnesota Timberwolves have finalised a complex three-team transaction involving the Brooklyn Nets and the Chicago Bulls, executed less than 24 hours before the commencement of the 2026 NBA Draft. According to reports from ESPN’s Shams Charania on Monday night, the deal sees Minnesota dispatch three-time All-Star Julius Randle and the No. 28 overall pick in the upcoming draft to the Nets. In return, the Timberwolves acquired centre Nic Claxton from the Bulls and the No. 33 overall pick from Brooklyn.
The restructuring of the roster has generated a $33 million traded player exception for the Timberwolves. Yahoo Sports NBA insider Kevin O’Connor identified this exception as a strategic tool for Minnesota, noting that it opens avenues for acquiring established talent. O’Connor highlighted Boston Celtics guard Derrick White as a primary fit for the exception, alongside other potential targets such as Trey Murphy Jr., Jrue Holiday, Dejounte Murray, and Myles Turner.
The pursuit of White appears to be a central component of Minnesota’s broader strategy. The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski reported that the Timberwolves have been “most aggressive” in their efforts to secure White, describing him as a defensive leader whose experience could bolster Anthony Edwards and the Wolves’ chances in the Western Conference. The move signals a clear intent to reshape the roster for immediate contention rather than rebuilding.
Despite the Timberwolves’ reported interest, Boston Celtics management has so far rebuffed Minnesota’s advances regarding White. The guard, who is set to turn 32 next month, experienced a considerable drop in his three-point shooting percentage during the previous season. However, his defensive capabilities and leadership remain valued assets, making him a focal point of trade speculation involving the Celtics’ starting backcourt.
The transaction also reshapes the landscape for the other participating franchises. The Nets have acquired a star forward in Randle, while the Bulls have added a veteran centre in Claxton. As the 2026 NBA Draft approaches, the implications of this trade extend beyond Minnesota, with Boston potentially facing further roster adjustments that could see Jaylen Brown involved in separate trade discussions.
