Timberwolves Executive Gets Honest About LeBron James Recruitment

Minnesota Timberwolves president of basketball operations Tim Connelly spoke to reporters during the introductory press conference for LaMelo Ball on Tuesday.

While many of the questions focused on the blockbuster trade acquisition of Ball, reporters also sprinkled in some questions about the highly-publicized free-agent pursuit of LeBron James.

The Timberwolves are on the short list of team’s with a real chance to land James in free agency. Connelly believes Minnesota’s new-look roster - featuring Ball, Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels and Rudy Gobert - should be enough to entice The King.

“I think the recruitment is this team. Obviously he's an unbelievable player and whatever decision he makes will be the right one. When you look at this team it's hard to not be excited for what we have,” Connelly said.

More basketball:LaMelo Ball Reacts to Teaming up With Anthony Edwards

In order to land Ball, the Timberwolves sent fan-favorite player Naz Reid to Charlotte. Julius Randle was also sent away to Brooklyn as part of the four-team trade, leaving Minnesota somewhat exposed at the power forward position.

"We're down two great power forwards, there's a couple free agents still available. We're working on one or two of them right now. We'll see if that comes to fruition,” Connelly added.

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The Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Golden State Warriors and Philadelphia 76ers are also possible landing spots for James.

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This story was originally published July 14, 2026 at 11:05 AM.