Minnesota Timberwolves: Nathan Knight could be the answer at power forward
Syracuse native Nathan Knight just might turn into the Minnesota Timberwolves‘ long overdue answer to their starting power forward position and the dismal success of the franchise.
The Timberwolves have had inconsistency at the power forward position, to say the least. Could that all change this season?
Minnesota Timberwolves: Nathan Knight could be the answer at the power forward
The days of Kevin Garnett and Kevin Love can be remembered quite easily due to the elite resumes they both had with the Timberwolves franchise. Love’s were centered on All-Star appearances while Garnett’s included plenty of additional accolades, including an MVP award, a perennial presence on the All-NBA and All-Defensive teams, and more.
Knight is neither of them, of course, but that does not mean he cannot be as valuable in his own ways.
Gersson Rosas and the front office have been looking to find the perfect partner that can unlock superstar Karl Anthony-Towns’ full potential. They have been searching high and low to find someone who can help alleviate the defensive woes and boost the offensive skillset of KAT.
They just might have someone who fits that bill in Nathan Knight.
Knight is a 6-foot-10, 253-pound power forward who spent the 2020-21 NBA season with the Atlanta Hawks on a two-way contract. With no G League season, he spent the entire season with the Hawks and played in 33 games, averaging 3.8 points and 2.2 rebounds in only 8.8 minutes per game.
Nathan Knight brings defensive versatility to the Minnesota Timberwolves
Knight has shown that he is a capable defender in the pick-and-roll, whether that is switching out to the perimeter with his quickness or rolling with his man to the basket.
Being able to defend multiple positions is very valuable to any team given that one player can sometimes anchor an entire defensive scheme. Pick-and-roll defense has been a major issue for the Wolves in recent years, to put it lightly.
Given his 7-foot-2 wingspan and solid athleticism, Knight should have the physical tools to defend both smaller guards and lengthy forwards. There will be times he occasionally gets beat to the spot or commits fouls in space, but the versatility should generally cultivate more positives than negatives long-term.
Nathan Knight can be an aggressive and punishing roll man for the Timberwolves
The best offensive skill set that Knight can provide is his ability as the roll man.
His offensive game is similar to Montrezl Harrell in that regard. D’Angelo Russell and Anthony Edwards should be able to elevate this ability even more with their offensive ability in handling the pick-and-roll.
He should see an increase in field goal percentage with the easy setups that he will be rewarded with this upcoming season.
Nathan Knight’s age fits into the Timberwolves’ timeline
At just 23 years old, Knight fits right along with the young core that is already established within the organization.
With Towns and Russell about to enter their prime years and Anthony Edwards freshly turned 20 years young, Knight will be able to grow right beside them. Of course, he’s only on a one-year, two-way contract, but the Wolves have the ability to promote him to the active roster and extend him if they so choose.
It is important to note that the Rosas and the front office have most likely been looking for a power forward who matches up with the overall timeline of the team. Success will not necessarily come overnight, but over time should be able to prosper with continuous team chemistry and camaraderie.
Don’t forget Nathan Knight’s success at Las Vegas Summer League
During Las Vegas Summer League, Knight contributed 13.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists in 23.3 minutes per game while shooting 47 percent from the floor — far better than the 37 percent he put up during his lone season with the Hawks.
As the clear third option on the team, Knight was able to produce solid numbers while also making his impact known given the team’s overall success in Summer League. He may not get as many minutes playing with the actual Timberwolves roster but he can make his presence felt on the court whenever he gets the opportunity.
Next. Wolves have fourth-worst playoff odds in the West. dark
The Minnesota Timberwolves have been eager to find their starting power forward that could pair up with Karl-Anthony Towns and help get this team over the hump playing postseason basketball, where players really make a name for themselves.