Amid summer league excitement for Terrence Shannon Jr., Rob Dillingham, and Joan Beringer, Leonard Miller has flown under the radar for the Minnesota Timberwolves. Nevertheless, the third-year forward has been quietly impactful on both ends of the court. Through three games, Miller is averaging 15.3 points, 8 rebounds, 1.6 blocks, and 1.3 steals. This includes two 20-point outings.
Miller’s disruptive defense has been his main strength since being drafted in 2023. However, he is showcasing his offensive abilities as well. Most of his scoring comes in the form of rim finishing and hustle plays. Let's dive into why Miller could be primed for a bigger role.
Miller's skill set and role with the Wolves
Defensively, Miller is highly impactful with his 6-foot-10 frame and 7-foot-2 wingspan. He is an athletic forward capable of guarding multiple positions and forcing turnovers at a high rate as a help-side defender. With Miller’s size, he is capable of guarding opposing fives. Miller’s defense and grit make him perfect for the Wolves' culture.
Offensively, Miller still isn’t super polished. However, scoring at a high level in the summer league is a positive sign for Miller’s development. As a cutter, screener, and offensive rebounder, Miller has a path to scoring production.
Throughout his career, Miller has appeared in 30 total games, averaging 2.8 minutes and 1.5 points. Miller likely won’t be a mainstay in the Wolves' rotation this upcoming season. Regardless, getting some occasional spot minutes feels possible, especially given his age and summer league play. With Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Josh Minott, and Luka Garza all departing in free agency, there is an opportunity for Miller to get some occasional minutes.
Undoubtedly, Miller still has room to grow. Most notably, his shooting and
decision-making must get better. Miller has shot just 25 percent from beyond the arc in summer league play and has committed six turnovers to just a single assist. With these flaws in mind and his size, Miller might be best utilized as a center. His inside scoring and off-ball abilities make him equipped to play a center role on offense.
As the Wolves are looking to push the pace, pairing Miller with floor spacing and playmaking in some lineups would be logical. While Miller’s flaws are clear, the only way for him to improve is to get more experience. At 21 years old, he still has plenty of upside. Ultimately, Miller’s summer league impact and potential make him worthy of a bigger role this upcoming season, even if it’s just some occasional spot minutes.