It's easy to see why Timberwolves fans love Naz Reid so much

In his seventh season, Naz Reid is the longest-tenured member of the Minnesota Timberwolves. Now 26 years old, Naz is still in the middle of carving out a wonderful career, particularly as someone who went undrafted. He won Sixth Man of the Year in 2023-24, finished fifth in 2024-25, and is among the favorites for the award again this season.

During his seven years with the club, Reid has endeared himself to the fan base, becoming one of the most beloved players in franchise history. Part of it is because of his underdog story, part of it is because of Reid's all-around production, and part of it is for his toughness and grit. That was witnessed on Tuesday after Reid returned, not long after grimacing on the floor and taking the collective breath out of the Target Center.

Naz Reid returns to Tuesday's game after injury scare

It was all hands on deck on Tuesday for an important game against a Phoenix Suns team trying to catch Minnesota and move out of a play-in spot. The Wolves were without Anthony Edwards, whose knee soreness will keep him out for at least the next few games.

The Timberwolves gave themselves more breathing room over Phoenix with their victory. Reid chipped in with 11 points, three rebounds, five assists, and four blocks in 18 minutes. The team was a plus-10 with Naz on the court, and his four blocks tied a season-high.

A little more than half his playing time came in the second half. Earlier in the game, it seemed like he would be sidelined for the third and fourth quarters. He stayed on the floor for some time after getting hurt early in the second quarter. Reid would eventually be helped off with a noticeable limp in what appeared to be an ankle injury.  

Naz also has been playing with a shoulder injury that appeared to be further hurt in their previous game when he fell hard into the stanchion. Surely, Reid looked as if he would be out for the rest of the Phoenix game, and fans just had to hope he wouldn’t have to remain out for multiple outings.

Instead, it was announced Reid would be available for the second half. The former Sixth Man of the Year winner didn’t put up huge counting numbers over the final 24 minutes, but he exhibited excellent rim protection, not something he’s exactly known for. Naz blocked two shots at the rim, as well as a Haywood Highsmith 3-point try.

The Wolves have been one of the healthiest teams all season, before the Ant-Man news. For a short while, it looked like the floodgates might be opening when it comes to injuries. Instead, Reid further showcased why he is such a beloved figure in the Minnesota community.