How the Minnesota Timberwolves were going to replace Nickeil Alexander-Walker was a key story heading into this season. The pitch was pretty simple: Alexander-Walker's 25.3 minutes would be spread around to Terrence Shannon Jr., Rob Dillingham, and Jaylen Clark.
I was sold on this pitch, and financially, it wasn't possible to bring back NAW after re-signing Julius Randle and Naz Reid without dipping into the second apron. Ultimately, I still think this approach will pay off in the long run, but it hasn't looked great so far.
While Shannon and Dillingham have had some nice moments, it doesn't look like they are ready for significant roles. Clark looks the most ready for a real role, but he's also the most limited offensively. It's a long season, and a lot can change. Regardless, right now, the void left behind by Alexander-Walker is significant, especially with Anthony Edwards sidelined due to a hamstring injury.
Conversely, Alexander-Walker is averaging 16.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.2 assists with the Atlanta Hawks. It's safe to say that Alexander-Walker's presence has been missed on both ends of the floor.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker's impact is missed on both ends of the floor
After consecutive seasons as a top 10 defense, the Wolves have shockingly ranked 25th in defensive rating to date. The defensive issues are complex; a big part of this has been that Jaden McDaniels is being overtaxed as a point-of-attack defender. This has been especially problematic without Edwards and Jaylen Clark for the past two games.
McDaniels is a fantastic defender, but there's only so much he can do. Now, without NAW, the Wolves don't have anywhere to turn to throw different looks at perimeter stars.
Offensively, the Wolves rank 27th in bench points. Sure, last year they only ranked 19th, but there's no denying the Wolves are missing Alexander-Walker's consistent scoring. As a secondary-creator, playmaker, and spot-up shooter, the 6-foot-5 wing was a stabilizing presence for the Wolves' bench. This year, there's simply more volatility off the bench, which is even more problematic amid Edwards' absence.
I don't think it's fair to say the Wolves with NAW would have beaten the Denver Nuggets on Monday night. However, I think it's fair to say that this would have changed the outcome of Wednesday's game against the Los Angeles Lakers.
It's no secret that Alexander-Walker's well-rounded impact was key to the Wolves' success. But now Minnesota is figuring out just how important NAW was to the team.
Through five games, Alexander-Walker's presence has been sorely missed in Minnesota. Again, it's possible over the course of the season that this changes as the young players find their groove. Nevertheless, for now, the void left behind by Alexander-Walker is immense.