Timberwolves welcome former Bulls guard Ayo Dosunmu to rotation after trade
The Minnesota Timberwolves have officially solidified their backcourt for the stretch run, welcoming guard Ayo Dosunmu to the rotation following a deadline deal with the Chicago Bulls. The trade, executed just before Thursday’s deadline, sends a clear signal that Minnesota is prioritizing immediate championship contention over long-term development. In exchange for the 26-year-old guard and forward Julian Phillips, the Timberwolves sent former lottery pick Rob Dillingham, forward Leonard Miller, and four second-round draft picks to Chicago.
For Minnesota, the acquisition addresses a critical need for reliable two-way production off the bench. Dosunmu is in the midst of a career-best season, averaging 15.0 points and 3.6 assists while shooting a blistering 45.1% from three-point range. With the Timberwolves looking to surpass their recent Western Conference Finals appearances, President of Basketball Operations Tim Connelly identified Dosunmu as the ideal piece to stabilize the second unit. His ability to defend multiple positions and initiate offense provides a significant upgrade over the fluctuating production the team had received from its reserves earlier in the season.
The move did come at a cost, specifically the departure of Rob Dillingham, the No. 8 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. While Dillingham possesses high upside, his timeline simply did not align with a Timberwolves roster built to win now. By swapping a developing prospect for a proven veteran like Dosunmu, Minnesota has maximized its window around superstar Anthony Edwards. Head coach Chris Finch is expected to integrate Dosunmu immediately, utilizing his transition speed and perimeter defense to complement the starting lineup.
Speaking to reporters upon his arrival in Minneapolis, Dosunmu expressed eagerness to join a title contender, noting he is ready to do "whatever it takes to help get over that hump." The Chicago native, who has played his entire high school, collegiate, and professional career in Illinois, now faces his first chapter away from home. He is expected to make his Timberwolves debut this Sunday against the Los Angeles Clippers, providing fans their first look at the revamped rotation.
For Minnesota, the acquisition addresses a critical need for reliable two-way production off the bench. Dosunmu is in the midst of a career-best season, averaging 15.0 points and 3.6 assists while shooting a blistering 45.1% from three-point range. With the Timberwolves looking to surpass their recent Western Conference Finals appearances, President of Basketball Operations Tim Connelly identified Dosunmu as the ideal piece to stabilize the second unit. His ability to defend multiple positions and initiate offense provides a significant upgrade over the fluctuating production the team had received from its reserves earlier in the season.
The move did come at a cost, specifically the departure of Rob Dillingham, the No. 8 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. While Dillingham possesses high upside, his timeline simply did not align with a Timberwolves roster built to win now. By swapping a developing prospect for a proven veteran like Dosunmu, Minnesota has maximized its window around superstar Anthony Edwards. Head coach Chris Finch is expected to integrate Dosunmu immediately, utilizing his transition speed and perimeter defense to complement the starting lineup.
Speaking to reporters upon his arrival in Minneapolis, Dosunmu expressed eagerness to join a title contender, noting he is ready to do "whatever it takes to help get over that hump." The Chicago native, who has played his entire high school, collegiate, and professional career in Illinois, now faces his first chapter away from home. He is expected to make his Timberwolves debut this Sunday against the Los Angeles Clippers, providing fans their first look at the revamped rotation.
