Timberwolves Bring Back Veteran Guard Mike Conley

Conley rejoins Minnesota just two weeks after being traded away, boosting leadership and salary flexibility for playoff push.

Feb. 20, 2026 at 10:39am

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The Minnesota Timberwolves have officially brought back veteran point guard Mike Conley, just two weeks after trading him away. This move was part of the team's strategy to reduce salary costs while maintaining roster leadership and experience. Conley was initially traded to the Chicago Bulls, then included in a deal with the Charlotte Hornets, who subsequently waived him. Due to being traded twice, Conley became eligible to rejoin the Timberwolves, who signed him to a minimum contract.

Why it matters

Conley's return strengthens the Timberwolves' locker room presence and demonstrates the team's calculated financial approach to maintaining competitiveness. The added salary cap flexibility from managing Conley's contract and acquiring players like Ayo Dosunmu will help the Timberwolves stay a strong playoff contender as the season progresses beyond the All-Star break.

The details

The Timberwolves' recent trade and contract maneuvering allowed them to reduce their luxury tax bill by dropping Conley's previous salary, providing salary cap space that facilitated acquiring guard Ayo Dosunmu from the Bulls. Although Conley's playing time and statistical contributions have declined this season, he remains a valued leader within the team, acknowledged for his professionalism and earning the NBA Sportsmanship Award four times and being named teammate of the year twice.

  • On February 18, 2026, the Timberwolves officially brought back Mike Conley.
  • Two weeks prior, the Timberwolves had traded Conley away in a three-team deal.

The players

Mike Conley

A veteran point guard who has been a valued leader within the Timberwolves team, known for his professionalism and earning the NBA Sportsmanship Award four times and being named teammate of the year twice.

Ayo Dosunmu

A guard acquired by the Timberwolves as part of the salary cap management strategy that enabled Conley's return.

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What they’re saying

“I'm excited to get back and contribute to the team's success.”

— Mike Conley, Point Guard

What’s next

The Timberwolves, currently sixth in the Western Conference with a 34-22 record, will face the Dallas Mavericks in their first game after the All-Star break.

The takeaway

Conley's return demonstrates the Timberwolves' strategic approach to managing their roster and salary cap, allowing them to maintain a veteran presence and leadership while also acquiring new talent like Dosunmu to stay competitive in the playoff race.