The Minnesota Timberwolves may have solved one of their biggest offseason puzzles before free agency even opened. According to multiple reports, Naz Reid is expected to remain in Minnesota after agreeing to a five-year contract worth up to $125 million.

The 25-year-old forward has declined his $15 million player option to sign a long-term extension, a move that shows the franchise’s confidence in his growing role alongside rising superstar Anthony Edwards.

Shams Charania of ESPN broke the news on X: “Just in: Minnesota Timberwolves' Naz Reid intends to sign a new five-year, $125 million contract to stay with the franchise, including a player option, sources tell ESPN. Critical agreement between the Wolves and Reid's agents, Sean Kennedy and Jeff Schwartz of Excel Sports.”

Charania followed up with added context that shows how rare Reid’s decision is in today’s NBA. “Reid declined a $15 million player option for next season and chose to stay with Minnesota despite a vibrant market developing of teams interested with similar money but with starting roles. The 2024 Sixth Man of the Year and Minnesota are locked in for the long term.”Reid has been one of the crucial superstars of the Timberwolves’ postseason success, helping them reach back-to-back Western Conference Finals.

He averaged a career-best 14.2 points per game last season while also becoming a vital part of their offensive spacing. His ability to stretch the floor makes him a valuable partner to Rudy Gobert and Julius Randle. His partnership and support of Anthony Edwards in the games will continue.

Charania added more weight to his value: “He is one of just three NBA players over the last three seasons to score 2,000 points off the bench.”

That level of production is rare for non-starters, making the Timberwolves’ commitment easier to justify.Also Read: Magic Johnson and his wife Cookie Johnson enjoy a yacht costume party during their Greece summer getaway [See Pic]Still, questions remain about the long-term structure. As KSTP Sports reported, “Two sources confirm that the Wolves and Reid’s representation are in agreement on a 5-year deal worth up to $125 million. The exact structure of the contract was still being worked through, as of late Friday.” Reid is expected to turn down the player's option before Sunday’s deadline to make the deal official.