Will the Minnesota Timberwolves regret waiving these 3 players?

The Minnesota Timberwolves, like every NBA team, was facing the difficult decision of reducing their 20 players under contract down to 15 players under contract, plus their two Two-Way contracted players.

The first indication of the Timberwolves acting quickly to achieve their roster occured yesterday after their final preseason game, as reports of the team signing backup center Luka Garza to a Two-Way contract appeared. To make room, follow-up information indicated that the team would in fact wave A.J. Lawson, holder of one of the two Two-Way contracts.

Today, we learn that the Timberwolves will also waive guard PJ Dozier and forward CJ Elleby.

Now that we know who is being waived, are there any surprises?

Player I: The release of guard PJ Dozier is a mild surprise. Dozier is coming off an ACL injury but was a guy who had a history with the Denver Nuggets and was believed to have a small chance of earning a Two-Way contract. While that did not happen, I would be surprised if the Iowa Wolves, the Timberwolves G-League affiliate, did not sign Dozier.

Player II: Another player who is facing the need to sign on with a new NBA team is C.J. Elleby. While not the most athletic player in the locker room, Elleby brought high energy and a selfless attitude to the team. While both characteristics are sought by NBA coaches, they must come with the ability to defend and score points, areas that Elleby has not quite mastered adequately enough to sign on to a multi-year deal with the team.

Player III: The final player waived, A.J. Lawson, is a player who the Timberwolves absolutely were very excited to work with this season. He is a Dallas Maverick Summer League standout, and the Timberwolves signed him directly to a Two-Way contract.

The Minnesota Timberwolves roster is now set. Of course, as other teams shed players, the Timberwolves have the right to either claim the player or, if they clear waivers, negotiate a new contract with them. That will require additional waivers to clear a roster spot for any new additions to the team.