The Minnesota Timberwolves face a critical decision after losing Nickeil Alexander-Walker in free agency. With a defensive void to fill and playoff expectations rising, one veteran name keeps surfacing in discussions around the Twin Cities. Gary Payton II could be the answer Minnesota needs, but only if Golden State decides to shake things up.
Why Are the Minnesota Timberwolves Targeting Gary Payton II?
The Timberwolves are expected to explore the possibility of signing Gary Payton II as a direct response to losing Alexander-Walker. With Alexander-Walker’s departure, Minnesota now has a rotation gap at the wing, especially on the defensive end, an area where Payton has built his NBA identity.
Payton carries a $9.1 million salary for the 2024-25 season and becomes an intriguing option if the Warriors opt to reset their core.
Meanwhile, Payton’s current standing in Golden State grew less certain following Kevon Looney’s exit to the New Orleans Pelicans. Looney was a trusted piece for head coach Steve Kerr, and his departure could signal broader changes within the organization.
“We don’t win the championship without him, I know that,” Kerr said in a presser on Dec. 31, 2022. “He is a unique player too.” That kind of praise makes it clear Golden State values him, but financial strategy could still lead to a split.
Steve Kerr discusses why GP2 receiving his championship ring tonight will be a special moment pic.twitter.com/WSH7Ry8WMh
— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) December 31, 2022
What Did Alexander-Walker Bring That Payton Could Replace?
The Timberwolves posted a 49-33 record during the 2024-25 season, securing the sixth seed in the Western Conference. Their playoff run ended in the Western Conference Finals, where they fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder in five games.
Alexander-Walker was a vital part of that structure, often taking tough wing assignments alongside Jaden McDaniels. With his 6-foot-5 frame, Alexander-Walker showed exceptional defensive skills. He also had a 2.25 assist-to-turnover ratio while shooting 38.1% from three, establishing himself as a certifiable 3-and-D speciailst.
Additionally, Alexander-Walker appeared in all 82 regular season games for the Timberwolves during the 2024-25 season, averaging 9.4 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game.
Unlike Alexander-Walker, Payton isn’t a reliable perimeter shooter, having shot 34% from deep in his career. However, he finishes efficiently inside and plays a smart, controlled game. He’s an aggressive defender without fouling, and fits well into defensive-heavy rotations.
With Mike Conley nearing the end of his career and Anthony Edwards still climbing, Minnesota may see Payton as a low-cost way to keep pressure on opposing guards while Edwards carries the offensive load.
Furthermore, Payton has championship pedigree, having won a ring with the Warriors in 2022, and he brings 270 games of NBA experience. That kind of locker-room presence is something the Wolves have not leaned on heavily, but it could be a smart move with expectations rising after the 2024-25 playoff push.
If the Warriors decide to cut salary or shift to younger pieces, Payton could become available. That scenario might suit the Timberwolves, who are looking to stay below the second apron and have limited financial flexibility. Whether Payton lands in the Twin Cities or elsewhere, his name will not remain on the market for long as teams with playoff aspirations rarely overlook defenders of his caliber.
