After multiple important signings this offseason, the Minnesota Timberwolves’ roster is starting to take shape. At this point, we have a realistic idea of what the team’s opening night lineup and rotation will look like.
However, there is still one full-time roster spot remaining. There are a lot of options remaining on the NBA free agent market for Minnesota to choose from, but odds are they will want to bring in a seasoned veteran who can provide a locker room presence.
One such player was recently made available. Shams Charania announced on Wednesday that the Oklahoma City Thunder had waived Rudy Gay. It would not be surprising to see the Timberwolves show interest in signing the veteran wing.
The Oklahoma City Thunder have waived Rudy Gay, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 20, 2023
Rudy Gay could be a good fit for the Timberwolves’ final roster spot.
Timberwolves management may be looking to fill the final spot on the roster with an experienced backup point guard. But if they are unable to find one that suits them, Rudy Gay would be another solid option.
The 17-year league vet is stepping into the twilight of his career, and Minnesota could end up being a good fit for him as his playing days wind down. Most fans probably remember Gay as a high-flying dunker from his earlier days. While his athleticism took a hit after his Achilles injury in 2017, Gay adapted his game to remain a high-level role player with the Spurs from 2017 to 2021.
He even showed flashes of being a serviceable rotation player with Utah last season. But in all likelihood, his role with the Timberwolves would be that of a leader and guiding presence for the young players in Minnesota’s locker room.
Gay was set to be paid $6.4 million this coming season until his release from the Thunder. As we know, the Wolves can only spend a maximum of $2.5 million on their final roster spot, so getting Rudy Gay on a minimum deal should be feasible.