Veteran point guard Mike Conley is returning to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Just days after he was traded by the team to Chicago, sources confirmed to KSTP Sports that Conley is coming back.
His return was made possible because, after the Wolves traded him, Chicago traded Conley to Charlotte, which waived him on Thursday, making him a free agent.
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The 38-year-old has played more sparingly in his fourth season in Minnesota as his production has dipped notably. He’s averaged 4.4 points, 2.9 assists and 1.8 rebounds per game this season in a career-low 18.5 minutes per game across 44 contests.
Despite the diminishing production, Conley still provides valuable veteran leadership and additional backcourt depth for the Timberwolves.
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His trade allowed the Wolves to save several million dollars in cap and luxury tax payments by offloading his $10.7 million contract. His return on a prorated veteran minimum deal will allow the team to keep those savings, although his return could be delayed until later in the season to further reduce the cap hit. Notably, the club has just four more games before the All-Star break, which would allow Conley to rest until at least Feb. 20.
The Timberwolves also have one other open roster spot that can be filled on the buyout market.
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