The Minnesota Timberwolves are in "serious discussions" with Euroleague MVP Nemanja Bjelica on a three-year deal worth at least $12 million, according to RealGM's Shams Charania. The 27-year-old forward was drafted in the second round in 2010 and has blossomed in Europe.
The Timberwolves likely need to make further moves to incorporate Bjelica and allow him to transition with confidence in his role. Around the league, there’s active trade interest in the Serbian forward, sources said.
A finalized deal with Bjelica and the Timberwolves could happen as soon as next week.
Playing for Fenerbahce Ulker in 2014-15, Bjelica averaged 11.5 points and 8.2 rebounds per game, shooting 54 percent from the field and 37.2 percent from behind the 3-point line. He could contribute to the Timberwolves or another team at both forward positions, stretching the floor and hitting the glass.
It'll be interesting to see what the Wolves do with him. They are reportedly looking at trades involving Anthony Bennett, and they also have Adreian Payne on their roster. There's some overlap here, but Bjelica is ready to see minutes right away. This is one of those "good problems" that Minnesota hasn't had in a while. What a great time it is for the franchise.
