Ranking the Minnesota Timberwolves’ three best contracts

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – JANUARY 01: Jarrett Culver #23 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts after a dunk during the second half against the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum on January 01, 2020 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

3. Jarrett Culver, Wing

2019-20: $5.8M

2020-21: $6.1M

2021-22: $6.4M

2022-23: $8.1M

Despite having a relatively disappointing season for a top-10 overall draft pick, Culver still showed a lot of promise, especially with the ball in his hands.

Averaging nine points, three rebounds, two assists, as well as an assist and block per game, Culver has not quite been the NBA-ready prospect he was hyped up to be. After shooting 34% from three and 69% from the free-throw line in college, his numbers have dipped to 30% from three and less than 50% from the line as a rookie in the NBA.

While these numbers are disheartening, Culver was, however, significantly better after the team re-shaped their roster during the trade deadline.

Culver has a lot of promise as a secondary playmaker, on and off-ball defender, and complementary scorer. Finding long-term wings is important in the NBA, and when you have on that shows significant promise, there is a lot to be excited about.

The Timberwolves do not have any established long-term veterans on the team at either wing spot (SG/SF). Despite this, Culver has improved drastically next to a real primary playmaker in Russell and plays off of him very well.

As long as he keeps improving, Culver could be on a very affordable deal, and keeping him on the Wolves for the long-term is of the essence.