Re-signing Ayo Dosunmu is one of the Minnesota Timberwolves' top priorities this summer. Given that the Wolves have his Bird rights (meaning they can go over the cap to sign him), that there are a few winning teams who have ample cap space to sign him (among other factors), and that reports are saying the two sides are working on a deal, there's plenty of optimism that he stays in Minnesota.
Unfortunately, though, nothing is truly guaranteed this time of year and recently, Chicago Bulls TV analyst Kendall Gill said Dosunmu reuniting with the Bulls is possible.
"I know it's going to take a lot of money, but I would definitely try to go back after Ayo Dosunmu, as well. I know that Ayo, from my conversations with him this summer, would be open to it, but it's going to take a lot to get him back," Gill said.
With $63.5 million in cap space, the Bulls have plenty of money to play with in free agency. Conversely, the Wolves are nearing the second tax apron and signing Dosunmu to a hefty new deal could further hinder them.
Losing Ayo would be a nightmare offseason outcome for the Wolves
Without a doubt, losing Ayo would be a disaster for the Wolves, as he proved to be an ideal fit with the team since his arrival at the trade deadline. And seeing Dosunmu go back to his old team would be even worse.
The Wolves traded Rob Dillingham, Leonard Miller and four second-round picks to land Ayo. It wasn't a major investment, but for a team with limited future assets like the Wolves, this was a sizable move.
More importantly than the embarrassment of seeing Ayo leave for his old team, Dosunmu proved to be the perfect complementary guard for the Wolves. He provided a boost across the board, including shooting, finishing, connective playmaking and defense.
Re-signing him is vital, especially since it's uncertain if the Wolves will be able to trade for a star.
And while the Wolves can technically sign Dosunmu to any contract, when push comes to shove, if the Bulls back up the brink's truck, will Minnesota be willing to pay him over $20 million a year?
There are plenty of other factors here. How much does Dosunmu value winning? Would he take a couple of million less a year to stay in a better basketball situation? If the Wolves trade for a star guard, how much, if at all, does this change how they view Ayo?
It's also worth noting that Dosunmu is from Chicago and played his college ball at the University of Illinois. As such, he could value playing for his hometown team.
Considering all of this and that Gill reportedly spoke to Ayo, these comments aren't a total nothing burger.
At the end of the day, I still feel confident that Dosunmu will be back with the Wolves. However, things might be a bit messier than expected and it's possible the Wolves will end up paying more than originally anticipated.
One thing is for sure, though, the possibility that Gill mentioned would be an absolute nightmare for the Wolves.
