The Minnesota Timberwolves remain largely unchanged following their appearance in the Western Conference Finals, aside from Kyle Anderson’s move to the Golden State Warriors. However, the team saw a need to bolster their shooting depth for training camp, leading them to sign former college sharpshooter Jaedon LeDee to an Exhibit 10 contract. The smooth-shooting forward posted an impressive 44.4% from beyond the arc in his final season at San Diego State.
The news of Jaedon LeDee’s signing was reported by Michael Scotto of Hoopshype.com. After finishing his college career, LeDee participated in the Timberwolves’ Summer League, where he seemingly impressed the front office enough to earn a spot in training camp. The forward had also been honored with the 2024 Karl Malone Award at San Diego State, recognizing him as the best power forward in the nation.
An Exhibit 10 contract is a one-year, non-guaranteed deal offering players like Jaedon LeDee a chance to make the Timberwolves’ roster. It includes a minimum salary and the possibility of a $75,000 bonus, but players can only earn this bonus if they spend at least 60 days with the team’s G League affiliate before being waived. Each NBA team can sign up to six players on Exhibit 10 deals, allowing them to compete for a spot on either the main roster or the G League team.
If a player excels, the team has the option to convert the Exhibit 10 deal into a two-way contract, which guarantees the bonus money and gives players a shot at NBA playing time. However, teams are limited to three active two-way contracts and must finalize these conversions before the regular season starts.
If LeDee performs well and remains on the 15-man roster through the regular season, his contract could be converted into a standard minimum deal, impacting the team’s salary cap. Many successful NBA role players have risen through two-way contracts, such as the Lakers’ Austin Reaves and Alex Caruso. Caruso notably became the first player to enter the NBA from the G League (formerly the D League) through a two-way contract, showcasing how teams like the Lakers have had success in developing impactful role players from these deals.
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