Minnesota Timberwolves Waive John Konchar: Why Veteran Wing Had No Clear Role in 2026-27 Rotation

The Minnesota Timberwolves waived John Konchar just hours after acquiring him from the Utah Jazz, a move driven more by roster construction and financial necessity than by his abilities as an NBA player. The waiver allows Minnesota to stretch his $6.17 million salary for 2026-27 into roughly $2.06 million annually over three seasons, creating needed cap flexibility beneath the second-apron hard cap and opening a 15th standard roster spot for a veteran minimum signing. This was expected in order to finalize the arrival of Jonathan Kuminga.

Beyond the financial rationale, there was a clear basketball reason Konchar was unlikely to join Chris Finch's rotation. Minnesota already has an overabundance of perimeter players. Assuming the expected starting lineup of LaMelo Ball, Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Kuminga and Rudy Gobert, the meaningful wing and guard minutes are largely accounted for. Konchar, a 30-year-old low-usage wing known for rebounding, defensive versatility and ball movement, would have been a complementary piece at best, but there is little room for such a role.

Ayo Dosunmu has already established himself as the top backcourt reserve, offering ball-handling, downhill pressure and defensive coverage at both guard spots. The Wolves also need to evaluate younger wings: Terrence Shannon Jr. brings athleticism and scoring upside, Jaylen Clark provides specialist perimeter defense, and Cody Williams—the 21-year-old former No. 10 pick acquired in the same deal—presents a development opportunity worth exploring. Trey Lyles adds another veteran forward option, and small-ball lineups with Ball, Edwards, Dosunmu, McDaniels and Kuminga further reduce the need for a player like Konchar.

Donte DiVincenzo's Achilles injury—a ruptured right tendon announced in April—complicates the depth picture but does not alter Konchar's fate. His absence can be covered by Dosunmu, Shannon and Clark, who offer more upside or a clearer skill set than Konchar, who was neither a high-volume shooter nor a primary creator. While Konchar could have provided steady veteran minutes, the combination of financial relief and a crowded, younger perimeter group made the decision to waive him straightforward.

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