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[Saba Sports News] The Minnesota Timberwolves may have had financial motives for trading Karl-Anthony Towns.
On Friday, the Timberwolves made the surprising decision to trade their four-time All-Star and longest-tenured player to the New York Knicks, following their first conference finals appearance in 20 years with Towns as the starting power forward.
NBA salary cap expert Yossi Gozlan noted that Minnesota could save $26.5 million in payroll and luxury tax penalties by moving Towns. While the team will still be above the $188.9 million second apron next season, Rudy Gobert could extend at a lower salary, allowing Minnesota more flexibility to re-sign Naz Reid.
Towns, 28, is starting a four-year, $220 million contract, while the incoming players, Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo, are on significantly more affordable deals.
With the steep penalties for exceeding the second apron, including restrictions on trades and signings, Minnesota’s move appears financially driven. However, it may not sit well with fans, especially amid concerns about potential payroll cuts by the Timberwolves’ new ownership.