Timberwolves send Julius Randle to Nets, receive 33rd pick in three-team deal

In a three-team transaction confirmed by league sources, the Minnesota Timberwolves will move forward Julius Randle and the 28th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft to the Brooklyn Nets. In return, Minnesota receives Brooklyn’s 33rd overall pick and clears Randle’s $33 million salary from its books.

Randle, who averaged 20.0 points per game over two seasons with the Timberwolves, shot 39 percent in the 2026 playoffs. The trade also involves center Nic Claxton, who is expected to join the Chicago Bulls from Brooklyn.

The move opens larger roles for Minnesota’s young frontcourt players. Naz Reid is slated to become a full-time starting power forward, while Jaden McDaniels is projected to assume a co-star position alongside Anthony Edwards, increasing his offensive responsibilities.

By shedding Randle’s contract, the Timberwolves gain cap flexibility to re-sign guard Ayo Dosunmu and to utilize the mid-level exception for additional roster additions. The trade also generates a $33 million trade exception and positions the team below the luxury-tax threshold.

Brooklyn uses roughly $10 million of cap space to acquire Randle, moving up five spots in the draft. The Nets’ roster includes Randle’s $35.8 million player option for next season, making him a potential short-term asset.

The transaction is expected to be finalized after the July 6 moratorium, allowing both clubs to explore further roster moves.