Crucial aspect of Enrique Freeman's game should have Timberwolves fans pumped up

Enrique Freeman's versatility should excite Wolves.
Mar 8, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Enrique Freeman (8) warms up on the court before the game against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mady Mertens-Imagn Images
Mar 8, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Enrique Freeman (8) warms up on the court before the game against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mady Mertens-Imagn Images | Madeleine Mertens-Imagn Images

Recently, the Minnesota Timberwolves signed second-year forward Enrique Freeman to a two-way deal. The Akron product spent his first season with the Indiana Pacers. Freeman's defense and versatility are key strengths of his game. During an interview with Darren Wolfson of KTSP, Freeman gave a thorough self-scouting report, especially regarding his defense.

"I can guard multiple positions, I can switch Freeman said. A lot of my time with the Mad Ants, I played the four. So I was able to switch a lot depending on what we needed. I'm able to guard multiple positions. But I'm also able to help around the rim, to be a rim protector, switch on bigger guys, and do all those things. My defense is so versatile, it fits the style of the NBA right now."

Undoubtedly, these comments and Freeman's game in general should have Wolves fans excited. While he'll likely spend a lot of time in Iowa, Freeman has the skill set to blossom into a rotational player for the Wolves down the road.

Freeman joins Tristen Newton and rookie big man Rocco Zikarsky as the Wolves' three two-way players. Notably, Freeman and Newton were previously teammates with the Pacers.

Freeman's skill set is intriguing

During Freeman's rookie season, he appeared in 22 games, averaging 8.2 minutes, 2.1 points, and 1.4 rebounds. 22 games is a sizable amount for a two-way player on a competitive team. Additionally, in the G League, Freeman averaged 16.9 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 3 assists. Freeman similarly averaged 16.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 2 assists while shooting 72.5 percent from the field in summer league. His jack-of-all-trades skill set should excite Wolves fans.

Offensively, Freeman is a capable finisher who is comfortable creating his own shot and driving to the basket. He is also an active cutter and offensive rebounder. However, defense is his main selling point. At 6-foot-7 with a 7-foot-2 wingspan, Freeman is perfectly built to guard multiple positions and play multiple defensive roles. He pairs this with incredible awareness and positioning.

As Freeman noted, this versatile skill set is valued in the modern NBA. This is also perfect for a Timberwolves team that loves defense and toughness. When Freeman has the chance to play with the Minnesota squad, his defense will get him on the court and could eventually lead to a rotational role. Freeman's off-ball abilities and high basketball IQ will give him a solid offensive role.

Entering his second season, the goal will be for Freeman to develop more offensively, especially as a decision-maker. While he might not play outside of the occasional minutes this season, getting some sort of role in the Wolves rotation the following year can't be ruled out.

Freeman has an inspiring path to the NBA in general. He started as a walk-on at Akron back in 2019 and blossomed into a second-round pick in 2024. Undoubtedly, Freeman is a driven young player with an intriguing and versatile skill set, which gives him a clear path to NBA success. Don't be surprised if Freeman becomes a fan favorite and carves out a role with the Wolves.