Minnesota Timberwolves: Who will be the backup point guard?
The Minnesota Timberwolves made an interesting decision when they chose to trade Ricky Rubio to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Taurean Prince. That could mean the return of a familiar face.
The Minnesota Timberwolves had Ricky Rubio and D’Angelo Russell holding down the point guard role this past year – with Jordan McLaughlin often getting minutes when either of those players missed significant time. After two straight years on a two-way contract, McLaughlin could be in line to receive a raise (and full-time roster spot).
Over the past two seasons, Jordan McLaughlin has averaged six points, four assists, and one steal per game on shooting splits of 45/37/71. In an expanded role, these numbers will likely grow (whether the efficiency remains is a valid question though).
As of right now, the Timberwolves only have one true point guard on their roster in D’Angelo Russell. They were able to snag McKinley Wright on a two-way contract following the draft – but bringing back Jordan McLaughlin would allow the Timberwolves to have two players with several years of NBA experience – not to mention that McLaughlin still was a player worthy of rotational minutes last season.
One of the things that McLaughlin would not be able to replace that Rubio brought was a natural sense of leadership. Anthony Edwards, for example, swore by Rubio’s leadership and strived to be like him. Still, adding a solid 3-and-D forward such as Prince does help both the roster positional balance and salary cap sheets.
Next. Wolves: Ricky Rubio traded, team gains cap space. dark
A Rubio trade could also mean that players such as Malik Beasley are in Minnesota for the long-term. With Leandro Bolmaro likely coming over from Europe this season, the Timberwolves could also elect to play him at the backup point guard role. His combination of shooting, size, and playmaking is unique and Bolmaro should be ready for rotational minutes, should he actually join the team this season.