In a potential domino from the Ricky Rubio trade, Jordan McLaughlin and his camp are optimistic about signing a multiyear deal with the Timberwolves, a source said Tuesday.
McLaughlin has been a two-way player for the Wolves the past two seasons but played in 81 NBA games and served as the Wolves' backup point guard when there have been injuries ahead of him in the rotation.
McLaughlin's better year was two seasons ago, when he averaged 7.6 points and 4.2 assists per game while shooting 49%. Last season he averaged 5.0 points and 3.8 assists per game while shooting 41%. A source said the Wolves appear ready to make a multiyear commitment to McLaughlin with the caveat that things can change quickly in free agency.
McLaughlin is in his second consecutive year of restricted free agency. Last year the tone of negotiations was much more difficult than it sounds this year, as McLaughlin wanted more of a commitment and guaranteed money. Instead, he signed another two-way deal to allow for flexibility this offseason and now talks seem to be trending in a positive direction for bringing McLaughlin back.
When Russell was injured last season, McLaughlin filled in behind Rubio, whose trade to Cleveland for forward Taurean Prince, a second-round draft pick and cash was made official Tuesday.
The Wolves also signed Nathan Knight to a two-way deal, a source said. Knight, who attended William and Mary, is a 6-10 forward/center and played on a two-way deal with Atlanta last season. He averaged 3.8 points in 33 NBA games.
