The Minnesota Timberwolves are preparing to bring back free agent guard Mike Conley Jr., as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. After being involved in multiple trades earlier this week, Conley is expected to re-sign with Minnesota once the timing is finalized.
Details of Recent Trades and Releases Involving Conley
This week, Mike Conley was traded twice: first from the Timberwolves to the Chicago Bulls, and then from the Bulls to the Charlotte Hornets. On Thursday, just before the NBA trade deadline, the Hornets waived Conley, enabling him to return to the Timberwolves.
Conley’s movements were part of a three-team transaction designed to create salary and roster flexibility for Minnesota ahead of the trade deadline. The Wolves also engaged the Bulls to acquire guard Ayo Dosunmo while sending Rob Dillingham to Chicago. Minnesota receives Dosunmo and Julian Phillips in the trade, while Chicago gains Dillingham, Leonard Miller, and four future second-round draft picks.
Conley’s Career and Impact on the Timberwolves
Mike Conley, a native of Fayetteville, Arkansas, has played 19 seasons in the NBA. He began his career with 12 years at the Memphis Grizzlies, followed by three and a half seasons with the Utah Jazz, before joining Minnesota for the past three and a half seasons. He remains one of the few active players drafted in 2007 or earlier.
Over 1,216 career games, Conley has averaged 13.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, 5.6 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. He is well-regarded by Timberwolves fans for his leadership and steady play.
Roster Moves Ahead of NBA Trade Deadline
On the day of the trade deadline, Minnesota finalized deals aimed at strengthening its roster. The Timberwolves acquired guard Ayo Dosunmo and forward Julian Phillips while trading away Rob Dillingham, Leonard Miller, and multiple future draft assets to Chicago. These moves accompanied the maneuvering that allowed Conley to return to Minnesota.
Implications of Conley’s Return to Minnesota
Bringing Mike Conley back is expected to bolster the Timberwolves’ backcourt depth and veteran presence as they advance through the season. His experience and familiarity with the team could provide stability during a critical stretch. The trades surrounding his re-signing also reflect Minnesota’s broader strategy to balance immediate competitiveness with long-term roster development.
Free agent guard Mike Conley Jr. plans to return to the Minnesota Timberwolves, sources tell ESPN. The sides are working on timing of him re-signing. Conley was traded twice this week – to Chicago, then to Charlotte – before being released and allowed to rejoin the Wolves. pic.twitter.com/ht6HVIIqm4
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 6, 2026
