When the Cleveland Cavaliers traded for Keon Ellis at the trade deadline, they hoped he would provide quality playoff minutes and give them a much-needed point-of-attack defender. However, things haven't gone well for Ellis. His offensive limitations have played him out of the Cavs' rotation; he is averaging 6.6 minutes in the playoffs, including a total of 6:42 minutes in the Eastern Conference finals, thus far.
With Ellis entering free agency this summer, a return to Cleveland doesn't feel super likely. Sure, things have not gone smoothly in Cleveland, but frankly, I'm surprised he can't crack the rotation. Without a doubt, though, there's still a strong chance he can become a solid contributor, especially given his defensive prowess.
In addition to their search for another star, the Minnesota Timberwolves will look to bolster their depth this offseason, and Ellis could be a solid target to fill this void in free agency. Ahead of the deadline, Minnesota expressed interest in Ellis, which makes him a realistic target this summer.
Moreover, given that he hasn't played much in Cleveland and that his minutes waffled with the Sacramento Kings, his contract could be team-friendly for Minnesota. For a Wolves team that is nearing the tax aprons, finding a budget target who could provide solid rotational minutes, like Ellis, would be particularly beneficial.
Keon Ellis is an ideal low-cost offseason addition for the Timberwolves
At 26, it's safe to say that Ellis doesn't have a high ceiling. However, he absolutely has the potential to be a quality rotational wing.
Ellis' defense jumps off the screen. The Wolves are always looking to add players who fit into their defensive identity, making Ellis a logical target. He is a stifling on-ball perimeter defender who also excels in chasing opposing players off the ball and wreaking havoc as a defensive playmaker.
According to B-Ball Index, Ellis ranks in the 92nd percentile in passing lane defense and the 88th percentile for ball screen navigation. Furthermore, per Databallr, Ellis exceeds the 90th percentile in steals, blocks, and deflections per 100 possessions. The Timberwolves would certainly benefit from some extra defense both on and off the ball.
Offensively, Ellis' skill set is on the limited side; he doesn't provide much in terms of playmaking or shot creation. Regardless, he is a career 40.7 percent 3-point shooter who can provide value in a spot-up shooter role. As such, Ellis is a classic 3-and-D player who could seamlessly fit with the Wolves' established talent.
Given their high payroll, need to re-sign Ayo Dosunmu, and hunt for a star trade, the Timberwolves aren't expected to be active in free agency. Still, adding Ellis on a cheap deal could be an ideal move around the margins.
Add us as a preferred source on Google