“Here or somewhere else”: Mike Conley uncertain of Timberwolves, free agency future originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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Veterans in the league usually bring about three options after the NBA Playoffs: entering free agency, running it back, and retirement. These are cards that are currently laid out in front of Mike Conley. Coach Chris Finch and the Minnesota Timberwolves led by Anthony Edwards already stated that they want him back. But, the future seems very uncertain from the veteran guard’s point of view.
Conley uncertain of Timberwolves future while free agency looms
Mike Conley is not sure about having the opportunity to run it back with the Timberwolves yet. The veteran guard has made it clear that he does want to play his 20th season in the league. Coach Chris Finch and the Timberwolves have also warmed up to the idea of having him back. But, words often do not guarantee a contract in the league. Conley made it clear that he would be happy no matter which team gets him in free agency, via Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic.
“I still want to have that opportunity, whether I’m playing or not. Just being around the environment, being around that kind of culture is what I’ve always strived to be around, and we’ve had opportunities here. Who knows how long the windows are? So, you’ve got to try to find that right opportunity for you, whether that’s here or somewhere else, because still that’s the one thing that I’m trying to reach,” Conley declared.
The Timberwolves notably had Conley jettison his own contract back in the trade deadline. He got traded to the Chicago Bulls, moved to the Charlotte Hornets, and waived before getting re-signed again by the Timberwolves. Now, his one-year minimum contract is expiring.
Coach Finch has loved the veteran presence and intangibles that Conley brings to the squad which is why he wants to have him back. However, the decision is not his to make. It is for the Timberwolves front office and big moves are likely coming if they want to contend for the future.