Timberwolves Sign Veteran Ronny Turiaf, Complete Ridnour for Martin Deal

The Wolves have come to terms with free agent big man Ronny Turiaf on a two year deal worth $3.2 million.

Turiaf is a 30 year old, eight year NBA veteran who has played for six NBA teams, most recently the Los Angeles Clippers, for whom he appeared in 65 games in 2012-13.

Turiaf is known for his energy and hustle on the floor, and will provide some interior experience and toughness to a center rotation that is very inexperienced behind starter Nikola Pekovic. He will compete for minutes with rookie Gorgui Dieng and 2nd year man Chris Johnson, but primarily will provide stability while Dieng adjusts to the NBA.

Turiaf doesn't bring much offensively, but will set a screen and work hard at the defensive end. He also has a history of agitating opponents which the Wolves could use.

This was one area I was worried the Wolves lacked depth, so I'm happy to see them address it relatively cheaply. Turiaf will provide a veteran alternative in the middle who understands NBA play.

In other news, the three way deal with the Bucks and Thunder is finally complete. The Wolves will send Luke Ridnour and a second round pick (I believe originally a Laker pick) to the Bucks and receive Kevin Martin and cash from the Thunder in a sign and trade deal, with Martin signing a 4 year contract worth approximately $28M. We know because of Luke's salary that Martin's contract must start below $7M for the first year, meaning it escalates through the life of the deal.

Press conferences look likely tomorrow.