Wolves Rejected Massive Trade for Celtics Superstar

The Minnesota Timberwolves reportedly considered a blockbuster trade for Jaylen Brown before ultimately deciding that the price set by the Boston Celtics was too steep.

According to Jon Krawczynski, a respected journalist from "The Athletic," Minnesota engaged in discussions with Boston regarding Brown. However, the Celtics demanded a "king's ransom," which included Rudy Gobert and significant draft pick compensation.

Brown was an enticing option for the Timberwolves, but Boston's unrealistic asking price halted any further progress in negotiations.

Boston reportedly viewed Gobert as a crucial piece in a potential trade for Brown, as the Celtics were actively seeking to bolster their frontcourt.

Minnesota, on the other hand, was unwilling to part with the four-time Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) and, in addition, surrender a massive number of future draft picks.

The Timberwolves also reportedly had reservations about how Brown would fit alongside Anthony Edwards on the court, given that both players are accustomed to having the ball in their hands as isolation scorers.

According to reports, Edwards was not included in the proposed package. Brown was eventually traded to the Philadelphia 76ers after Minnesota declined to meet Boston's demands.

Brown wasn't the only superstar Minnesota considered.

Krawczynski reported that Timberwolves President of Basketball Operations, Tim Connelly, attempted to acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo before the start of the 2025/26 season, and again towards the end of the trade deadline.

Despite multiple attempts to initiate concrete negotiations with the Milwaukee Bucks, Minnesota was never close to a deal for the two-time NBA MVP.

The Timberwolves also contacted the Chicago Bulls regarding Josh Giddey.

Minnesota saw Giddey as another tall guard who could potentially play alongside Edwards, bringing additional height and playmaking to the backcourt.

However, those discussions reportedly didn't yield significant progress, leaving the Timberwolves without a deal for Brown, Antetokounmpo, or Giddey.