The Minnesota Timberwolves’ season came to an end on Wednesday when they were eliminated by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals.
With a crucial offseason ahead, the Timberwolves face several major decisions, particularly regarding their frontcourt rotation. Julius Randle and Naz Reid both enter this offseason as unrestricted free agents.
With the emergence of Naz Reid, FanSided’s Joseph Kallan suggests that the Timberwolves would re-sign Naz Reid and explore trades for Rudy Gobert.
“Naz Reid, the reigning Most Improved Player (2024), has continued his upward trajectory, averaging 14.2 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists off the bench. He’s expected to decline his $15 million player option and test free agency — and he’ll deserve every bit of a projected $18-25 million annual deal, Kallan Wrote. “Minnesota must prioritize re-signing him and inserting him into the starting lineup.”
“That brings us to Rudy Gobert.”
“While trading the three-time Defensive Player of the Year would have seemed unthinkable two years ago, Gobert is clearly declining. He just posted his worst offensive and rebounding numbers in nearly a decade, and his shot-blocking has also dropped to career-low levels. In today’s fast-paced, floor-spacing league, Gobert’s limitations are becoming more pronounced, especially when compared to Reid’s versatility.”
Despite Rudy Gobert’s impact in anchoring the Timberwolves’ defense, his offensive limitations were glaring during the series against the Thunder.
Meanwhile, Reid’s emergence over the past two seasons has been a bright spot for the Timberwolves. He has served as a reliable offensive threat behind Antony Edwards with his ability to space the floor and contagious energy.
His versatility could provide the offensive spark the Timberwolves desperately need to get over the hump.