The Minnesota Timberwolves had a disappointing season led by defensive-minded coach Tom Thibodeau. They finished 31-51 despite Karl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins having great seasons. Acquiring Jimmy Butler during last week’s draft definitely makes them much more competitive than before, but they have a long way to go and need to decide on which players they want to retain for next season. Check out Minnesota’s free agents below:
1. Shabazz Muhammad
Shabazz Muhammad averaged 9.9 points and 2.8 rebounds this season while shooting 48 percent from the field. He gave them spurts in which he provided them a much needed spark off the bench. The Brooklyn Nets are reportedly pursuing the restricted free agent this summer, likely to snatch him away from the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Nets need all the pieces in the world to be competitive and for Muhammad, who is only 24 years old, can be an opportunity for him to shine in Brooklyn as a starting small forward.
2. Brandon Rush
In 47 games, Brandon Rush was nothing more than a reserve player off the bench. Rush didn’t see a whole lot of playing time, averaging just four points in 20 minutes per game. He was scheduled to make $4.2 million, but Minnesota will pass that up. After acquiring Jimmy Butler and adding new guys in the draft, Minnesota won’t likely have room for Rush. Rush is a veteran leader who is known for his time with the Golden State Warriors. At 31, Rush will most likely end up with another team that either needs three point shooting or veteran leadership.
3. Omri Casspi
Omri Casspi bounced around several teams in the 2016-17 season. Casspi was a throw-in in the DeMarcus Cousins trade and didn’t get to do much in New Orleans after fracturing his thumb in his Pelicans debut. The Timberwolves signed Casspi after being waived by New Orleans which turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Despite only averaging 3.5 points in 17 minutes per game, his shooting helps the team spread the floor. Thibodeau likes that and could use him more due to the league wanting more three point shooters. Minnesota should try to sign him on a cheap deal. Casspi currently holds the longest NBA tenure among active players for not having a single postseason appearance (eight seasons). Should he re-sign with the T-Wolves, that streak may end very soon.
4. Adreian Payne
Jerry Holt, Star TribuneAdreian Payne was a reserve/garbage minutes player for Minnesota this season. The undrafted Michigan State grad appeared in just 18 games and averaged just 3.5 points in 7.5 minutes per game. At 6’10 he gives them energy and rebounding off the bench, but the Timberwolves will likely look for another power forward in free agency to replace his lack of production.
