It looks like J.J. Barea’s days in a Minnesota Timberwolves uniform may be numbered.
According to Pro Basketball Talk, the Wolves are open to buying out the final year of Barea’s contract if they are unable to trade him.
The Wolves signing of second-round draft pick Glenn Robinson III to a guaranteed contract leaves them with 16 guaranteed contracts as they head toward the opening of training camp at the end of September.
Barea, 30, looks to be the odd man out. He is due a little more than $4.5 million in the final year of his contract.
The Wolves tried to deal Barea to the 76ers in the Kevin Love trade but failed. Finding a spot to deal the guard won’t be easy.
#Twolves still hope to move Barea. But told they are open to buying him out.
— Darren Wolfson (@DWolfsonKSTP) September 16, 2014
Barea may draw some interest if the Wolves release him. According to Pro Basketball Talk, he would likely get interest elsewhere as a third point guard on a minimum contract. But that might not happen right away.
Gotten JJ questions. Nothing imminent. No need. Makes sense to hold onto for a bit. Never know if a team loses a guy in preseason. #twolves
— Darren Wolfson (@DWolfsonKSTP) September 18, 2014
The Wolves added veteran guard Mo Williams in July, signaling the team was ready to move beyond Barea.
