NBA Free Agent Rumors: Timberwolves ‘Launched Their Planned Pursuit’ Of Luol Deng
Luol Deng, Lakers
Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Two years removed from signing a four-year, $72 million contract prior to the 2016-17 NBA season, Luol Deng was bought out of the deal via the stretch provision by the Los Angeles Lakers.

SHOP NOW: CHECK OUT THE LATEST MERCH ????????????

Since Deng only appeared in a combined 57 games over the past two seasons, he reportedly gave up $7.3 million in the buyout in order to become a free agent.

As a result, the Lakers will have $38 million in salary cap space available for 2019 free agency which may feature Jimmy Butler, Kawhi Leonard, Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson.

With the 33-year-old Deng looking to finish his career on his terms, the Minnesota Timberwolves are pursuing him heading into the 2018-19 season, according to Marc Stein of New York Times:

This comes as no surprise as the Timberwolves were reportedly interested in Deng if he was ultimately bought out. With head coach and president of basketball operations Tom Thibodeau in charge, it is an opportunity for him to reunite with another member of the Chicago Bulls.

After trading for Jimmy Butler prior to the 2017-18 season, the Timberwolves eventually signed Derrick Rose. As Deng may eventually sign, the Timberwolves are also reportedly interested in Joakim Noah if the New York Knicks buy him out as well.

Meanwhile, it’s unclear what, if anything, the Lakers will do with the open roster space. It’s likely the team doesn’t fill it prior to the regular season beginning.

Are you following us on Instagram? We’ve changed our handle to @LakersNationOfficial! Find us on Facebook at @LakersNation, and on Twitter @LakersNation.

You May Also Like

Lakers Rumors: Team ‘Preparing Possible Maximum-Salary’ Offer For Jimmy Butler

After a strong 2014-15 NBA season, Jimmy Butler of the Chicago Bulls…

NBA Free Agency Rumors: JaVale McGee Signs With Lakers On Two-Year, $8.2 Million Deal

Among the many new additions to the Los Angeles Lakers roster for the 2018-19 NBA season was JaVale McGee, who…

Lakers Rumors: Possibility Of Waiving & Stretching Russell Westbrook Has Not Been Ruled Out

With the Los Angeles Lakers officially eliminated from playoff contention, all eyes immediately are set on…

Lakers Rumors: Jeanie Buss Prevented Jim Buss From ‘Mortgaging’ Future In Trade Talks

Before Jim Buss was relieved of his position as vice president of basketball operations, the 57-year-old was reportedly trying to save his job by making some moves…