Timberwolves’ Naz Reid Shines in Key Role Against Thunder

MINNEAPOLIS — Naz Reid made a significant impact on the Minnesota Timberwolves in their recent matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder, demonstrating his value in the wake of Rudy Gobert’s absence due to back spasms. On Thursday night, Reid played 38 minutes, recording 27 points, 14 rebounds, seven assists, and a block without committing any turnovers.

With the Timberwolves struggling to establish their roster amid ongoing injuries, Reid has solidified his spot as one of the team’s top contributors this season. Coach Chris Finch was impressed with Reid’s performance, emphasizing the importance of his all-around skills in such a crucial game against a leading NBA contender.

“Naz stepped up in a big way,” Finch said postgame. “We needed a complete effort from him, and he delivered. His ability to stretch the floor while also protecting the rim makes him invaluable to our lineup.”

Reid’s offensive versatility allows him to function effectively as a center, ball handler, and a long-range shooter, adding a dynamic element to Minnesota’s game plan. After the match, he commented on the need to maintain his aggressive play during the vital stretch of the season.

“Every game is important right now, especially with the competition we’re facing,” Reid said. “I’ve worked hard this year to be ready when my number is called, and I’m just trying to help my team however I can.”

In recent seasons, the Timberwolves have cycled through various combinations of star players, experimenting with different “Big Threes.” Currently, Reid is emerging as a crucial component alongside Anthony Edwards and Gobert.

“I think our chemistry is building,” Reid noted. “With the injuries, we’ve had to adapt quickly, but I believe in this group to figure things out on the fly.”

The Timberwolves now have a favorable schedule ahead, with several games against teams lower in the Western Conference standings. As the season progresses, Minnesota will look to solidify its playoff position with Reid playing a central role.

Statistics reveal that even though Reid has had a challenging start to the season, his effective field-goal percentage currently ranks as the best on the team among regular players who shoot from beyond the three-point arc. His emergence comes at a critical juncture for the Timberwolves, who have focused their franchise strategy around their star players, making the retention of Reid essential as they pursue playoff success.

“For us to contend in the playoffs, keeping Naz is key,” said Timberwolves Vice President Tim Connelly. “His development has been a game changer, and we’ll work hard to make sure he remains part of our future.”