The Minnesota Timberwolves had an undoubtedly interesting season riddled by injuries along with a coaching change in for the ladder half of the year.
The team, as a whole, underperformed, and Josh Okogie did not step up in what was a crucial season for his development – as most NBA players take the biggest step forward during their third year in the league.
Minnesota Timberwolves season grades: Josh Okogie
Josh Okogie averaged 5.4 points, 2.6 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 0.9 steals per game this season, on shooting splits of 40/27/77. Okogie played only 20.3 minutes per game, making 59 appearances, starting in 37 games.
The Minnesota Timberwolves were one of the worst defensive teams in the NBA this past season – and Okogie, as a high-level wing defender, was one of the best on the team, being able to guard the opponent’s best guard/wing scorer on a night-to-night basis.
That said, it seems as though Okogie regressed, even as a defender. He took a step down in defensive win-shares, win-shares per 48 minutes, and VORP. Okogie simply was not (and is not) good enough offensively to allow his defense to keep him on the court, particularly with some of the other options at Chris Finch’s disposal (Edwards, Beasley, McDaniels).
Okogie becomes extension eligible this offseason, as he is entering his fourth NBA season. That said, it would be surprising if Gersson Rosas elected to re-sign him this early, particularly with Okogie’s lack of progression offensively.
To say this coming season is make-or-break for Okogie would be an understatement. He is going to be battling for a new contract on a team which he may not receive many minutes.
Okogie simply was not impressive in a season which many expected him to be much better. The drop in minutes was notable, particularly given how injury-stricken Minnesota was throughout the year.
Season Grade: D
It will be interesting to see whether Okogie is able to make a name for himself this coming season. It is not unlikely that he is traded, possibly in combination with other assets to acquire a win-now veteran.