After shouldering much of the Timberwolves bench production for half of the season, Naz Reid's production has dropped significantly since the All-Star break. A key reason for this regression can be traced back to an injury suffered in the Timberwolves Jan. 17 matchup against the Spurs. In February, Reid re-aggravated this injury and was sidelined for a game against the Philadelphia 76ers.
Reid exited the game in the 6:58 minute mark of the fourth quarter of the matchup, but was able to return to play in the Timberwolves following matchup against the Jazz. Prior to this game, Reid was firmly in contention for his second Sixth-Man of the Year award, with season averages of 14.5 points per game and six rebounds, on 39 percent from beyond the arc.
Reid was the sole offensive contributor for the Timberwolves in the first half of the season, as bench production was the teams' Achilles heel. Reid was the sole bright spot for the Timberwolves bench, which the Timberwolves would finally address on the trade deadline.
Naz Reid: A tale of two seasons
As the Timberwolves bench struggled, the Timberwolves went out and acquired guard Ayo Dosunmu from the Bulls. This acquisition along with the ascension in play from Bones Hyland formed what projected to be a premier bench unit.
However, the dip in production from Reid has kept the Timberwovles from reaching their full potential as a team, and could affect the Timberwolves playoff performance.
Since the Jan 17. injury, Reid's production has dipped to 12.4 points per game, but his 3-point percentage has significantly dipped to 33.2 percent, a steep drop off from prior to the shoulder injury. And since re-injuring his shoulder, Reid is averaging 11.1 points on 24.1 shooting from beyond the arc.
While Reid's resilience to play through the injury, it is evident that the injury is plaguing his production and effectiveness on the court. Reid has been seen laboring his shoulder since the injury.
With the recent injuries to Jaden McDaniels and Anthony Edwards, scoring has been scarce for the Timberwolves. In their absence, Reid hasn't been able to capitalize on the opening in scoring, and has continued his offensive struggles.
Reid's play is a concerning sign for the playoffs
Regardless of his injury, there's no denying that Reid's production is a massive concern for the Timberwolves as the playoffs near. Without his extra 3-point shooting and bench scoring, the Wolves could be sent home early.
As the Timberwolves are skidding into postseason play, the Timberwolves face tough decisions in the offseason. If the Timberwolves are eliminated in embarrassing fashion yet again, the Timberwolves could shake up the roster.
Among these decisions, Naz Reid could be among the tough decisions. Despite being a fan favorite, Reid's contract extension this past free-agency could force Minnesota to make difficult decisions as they gear up to fully embrace the Anthony Edwards phase.