3 Players to watch in Timberwolves’ preseason opener vs. Heat

The Minnesota Timberwolves will take the floor for their first preseason game Tuesday evening against the Miami Heat at FTX Arena. It’ll be the team’s first chance to match up and compete with someone other than themselves, after a long summer of individual work and scrimmages.

The game will be the first of five preseason contests for the Timberwolves, and will be an excellent opportunity for certain players on the roster to show what they’ve got in the tank. Others will look to sure up their spot in the rotation.

Not everyone currently in the Minnesota locker room will make it to opening night, so it will be an opportunity to prove something for several players. While fans will certainly be excited to see the stars like Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert play, there’s a few other players that will be must-see TV for different reasons.

Guys who are on two-way or training camp contracts will essentially be trying to play their way into a roster spot in Minnesota. With that in mind, let’s take a look at three of the most notable players to watch for.

1. A.J. Lawson

After getting picked up by the Timberwolves at the conclusion of NBA Summer League, A.J. Lawson will look to retain his two-way contract with the team.

Still just 22 years old, Lawson has the chance to carve out a solid NBA career for himself. After spending time in the G-League, he’s grown as a scorer and could end up being a late bloomer that finds his niche in the league as an offensive spark plug.

While with the Dallas Mavericks in Summer League, Lawson averaged 15.6 points while shooting the ball with an impressive efficiency, finishing his campaign at just under 52% from the floor.

Lawson is coming into his own, and he’ll have the chance to continue his efficient shooting in preseason. He’ll have the chance to show off his quick first step and reliable jumper against Miami’s guards.