Agent: Stiemsma, Timberwolves agree

July, 21, 2012
7/21/12
5:46
PM ET
David Butler II/US PresswireGreg Stiemsma is taking his talents (back) to Minnesota.
Restricted free agent center Greg Stiemsma has reached an agreement with the Minnesota Timberwolves, according to his agent.

Terms were not disclosed, but the Boston Celtics own only the biannual exception ($1.975 million) to match.

The Timberwolves' offer was expected to trump that, meaning Stiemsma is almost certainly bound for Minnesota.

Stiemsma received consistent interest from the Timberwolves this summer, meeting with them near the start of free agency and waiting patiently as they sorted out their own cap issues while pursuing front-line players.

The Celtics would have three days to match an offer sheet, or they could simply rescind their $1.1 million qualifying offer to allow Stiemsma to sign as an unrestricted free agent.

Stiemsma, a Wisconsin native, heads closer to home with a chance to play again for the team that gave him his first NBA opportunity.

Stiemsma signed with the Timberwolves at the end of the 2009-10 season, but was waived before appearing in a game.

After stints in South Korea, Turkey and the NBA D-League, he landed in Boston after the lockout and earned a roster spot. By the end of an injury-decimated 2011-12 season, he was Boston's first big off the bench.

Stiemsma averaged 2.9 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.5 blocks over 55 games with Boston.

Chris Forsberg

Celtics reporter, ESPNBoston.com

SPONSORED HEADLINES

ESPN Conversations


You must be signed in to post a comment

Already have an account?

PODCASTS

Jon Barry, ESPN NBA analyst

ESPN NBA analyst Jon Barry says it's time for the Celtics to start the rebuilding process, talks about the genuine disdain between the Heat and Pacers, says the Pacers need to take better care of the ball to have a chance in Game 2 and weighs in on the Grizzlies' attempt to get back into their series against the Spurs.

Buster Olney, ESPN.com

ESPN MLB Insider Buster Olney gives his thoughts on Mike Trout's cycle and compares Trout's production with Miguel Cabrera's. Olney also says Jacoby Ellsbury's lack of production is putting the Red Sox in a tough spot and explains why Cole Hamels' poor start isn't too much of a concern.

Terry Francona, Indians

Indians manager Terry Francona dishes on his return to baseball, joining Cleveland, Miguel Cabrera, his time with the Red Sox, MLB's usage of instant replay and more.

Adam Schefter, NFL

ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter covers Rob Gronkowski's latest forearm surgery, the possibility of a new league schedule, Super Bowls L and LI, Charles Woodson and more.

TEAM LEADERS

POINTS
Paul Pierce
PTS AST STL MIN
18.6 4.8 1.1 33.4
OTHER LEADERS
ReboundsK. Garnett 7.8
AssistsR. Rondo 11.1
StealsR. Rondo 1.8
BlocksK. Garnett 0.9