Did S/L Game 2 Timberwolves earn these grades?
By Tim Garrison
Brandon Williams – Guard (unrestricted free agent):
Game 2 Stats: 29 mins | 17 pts | 0.0 3P% | 2 rebs | 7 ast | 2 stl
Williams was a steady facilitator in Game 2. Displaying a mesmerizing handle and a ludicrous ability to push the tempo, he truly was the pace-setter for the Minnesota Timberwolves. While he may not be the best shooter or possess great size, Williams is a high IQ guard that can flat-out finish at the rim and makes things happen offensively.
Williams can accelerate like a Buggati, so don’t blink or you’re going to miss him. There is a calming feeling when the ball is in Williams’s hands, and he is building quite the case to challenge for the Timberwolves’ final two-way contract.
While Williams was outstanding in the first half, he has a follow-up showing in the second. His lack of rim pressure in the second half was a major reason why the Timberwolves’ offense sputtered down the stretch. That said, it was still an impressive outing for a player who has legitimately cemented himself as a player to watch on this Summer League roster.
Grade – B+
Brian Bowen II – Forward (Iowa Wolves):
Not a very good follow-up game for Bowen, as he was largely ineffective. He went 0-3 from deep in what was a forgettable performance for a player fighting for his NBA future.
Grade D-
Trevon Williams – Center (Purdue/UFA)
Williams displayed much of what made him a staple of collegiate basketball powerhouse Purdue. He can rebound, defend out the perimeter, and even offers some passing chops. Ultimately, it simply looks like Williams doesn’t quite have enough to be an NBA player. Through two games, Williams has shown little shooting touch, and his attempts to handle have frequently resulted in loose balls. He has some legitimate skill as a passer and rebounder, just simply doesn’t appear to have enough currently to warrant NBA attention.
Grade – C
Matteo Spagnolo – Guard ( Pick #50 – 2022 NBA Draft):
DNP – Injury
While the energy was outstanding in game two, the Timberwolves ultimately lacked the scoring punch to put the Jazz away. While there was plenty to like about the performance turned in by Minott and Miller, the dynamic guard play from the Jazz, especially rookie Keyonte George, proved too much to overcome for the Wolves in this one.
We’ll get another chance to see this squad in action this Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at 3:00 pm CT when the Minnesota Timberwolves take on the Atlanta Hawks. Until then, we can all worship clips of Leonard Miller canning jumpers from deep.