The first few weeks of this NBA season were difficult for Minnesota Timberwolves forward Naz Reid — on and off the court. On Sept. 8, it was reported that Reid’s older sister, Toraya Reid, was shot and killed by her boyfriend. She was only 28 years old.
The tragedy understandably cast a shadow over the start of Reid’s season, and his early performances reflected the weight he was carrying.
A Tough Start for Naz Reid
In five of his first eight games, Reid scored six or fewer points. His outside shot wasn’t falling, his usually soft touch around the rim looked inconsistent, and the box scores mirrored a player trying to regain his footing. The Timberwolves lost three of those five games, amplifying concerns from fans.
As the slump lingered, some Wolves fans wondered whether moving Reid in a trade to upgrade the team’s point-guard position might be the pragmatic choice. But, as is often the case, patience proved the better approach.
Looking Good Lately
Lately, Reid has looked like himself again, and then some. Over his last ten games, he’s averaging 16.7 points while shooting nearly 50% from the field and better than 44% from three. If he maintains this pace, these marks would be career highs for the 2024 Sixth Man of the Year.
It’s clear the Timberwolves’ fan favorite has settled into the season. Reid has rediscovered his three-point prowess and his patented hooks in the paint, playing with renewed confidence, aggression, and decisiveness. His scoring burst has helped unlock a freer, more dynamic Timberwolves offense, giving the team a lift as the first quarter of the season comes to a close.
If Naz Reid continues to light up the scoreboard the way he has lately, the Timberwolves should feel optimistic about their place in the Western Conference playoff race.
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