The Minnesota Timberwolves will face some key decisions this offseason with pending free agents Julius Randle, Naz Reid, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker. The Wolves seem likely to bring back Randle and Reid, who both have player options. However, some people are concerned about the financial impact of these moves, especially since the Wolves were a second-apron team this past season.
One thing that needs to be considered with re-signing these players is who would replace their shot creation, especially Randle's. The obvious candidate is Jaden McDaniels. Undoubtedly, McDaniels has shown solid development as a creator, especially this past season. Nevertheless, he likely wouldn't be able to take on the second option role if the Wolves choose not to re-sign Randle.
McDaniels has developed on offense but isn't a second option level player
McDaniels averaged a career high of 12.2 points this past season, he bumped up his scoring average to 14.7 in the playoffs. It's possible the 25-year-old wing can take another leap as a creator next season. Regardless, he undoubtedly benefits from the pressure Anthony Edwards and Randle receive. Notably, in the playoffs, 70.1 percent of McDaniels' made field goals were unassisted. This number is slightly higher than Reid's 69.6 and significantly higher than Randle's 51.3 percent.
It's unlikely that McDaniels would be able to handle the increased responsibilities and pressure without Randle or even Reid. As a result, the Wolves must retain Randle. Re-signing Reid should also be a priority, as he and McDaniels can switch between the third and fourth option. This is an ideal role for McDaniels, and it maximizes his defensive impact. If McDaniels had more offensive responsibilities, his elite defense may slip a bit. McDaniels' role as an on-ball stopper and versatile wing defender has been crucial to the Wolves' success, they can't afford this impact to decline.
The Wolves would count on McDaniels heavily as a shot creator if they lose Randle or Reid, given their lack of playmaking. McDaniels is a highly impactful player, but he's not a second option. In addition to having more responsibilities as a shot creator, McDaniels would have more playmaking duties, which isn't his strong suit. The Wolves must consider these factors when deciding what to do with Randle. If the Wolves choose not to re-sign Randle, they must trade for Kevin Durant or another star to remain title contenders.
The Timberwolves will have some diffcult decisions to make in terms of how much they should pay Randle and Reid. Nonetheless, re-signing both players feels necessary, even if it's expensive, especially considering how they impact McDaniels.