Jonathan Kuminga's top priority proves that the Timberwolves have a chance to sign him

As first reported by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Minnesota Timberwolves are interested in Jonathan Kuminga. This makes sense given their pressing need for a forward and Kuminga's uncertain market value. 

However, with only having access to a veteran's minimum contract, the Timberwolves' lack of cap space is a clear hurdle. As such, I understand those who are skeptical of the Timberwolves signing Kuminga. It's not nothing that, per Scotto, Kuminga's camp is listening to the Timberwolves' pitch, though. 

Recently, Scotto made an appearance on the Wilder Wolves Podcast, and he discussed that Kuminga's main priority is getting consistent minutes. Given the opportunity for consistent minutes that Minnesota can provide, Kuminga joining the Timberwolves can't be ruled out, even if there are some undeniable hurdles.

"I think for Jonathan Kuminga the main thing is getting consistent playing time. And finally having an opportunity, if he can, to show and realize the potential that he showed when he was with Golden State. He's yet to get that opportunity in full, and Minnesota would provide him the best opportunity for that. With the Lakers, there's also the possibility that he would be a starting forward. I think it would be more concrete with Minnesota, though," Scotto said. 

The Timberwolves can give Kuminga an ideal chance to play a sizable role

Now, I suppose if raw opportunity is the only thing that Kuminga is seeking, he could sign with a rebuilding team like the Milwaukee Bucks or Chicago Bulls. Still, it's unlikely that he'll get a long-term contract, and putting up "empty numbers" on a losing team won't help him shed some harmful narratives about his game.

Without a doubt, in terms of the combination of opportunity and winning, the Timberwolves make the most sense. Despite previous reporting around Kuminga's desire to earn a big contract, Scotto made it sound like Kuminga is more focused on opportunity. This certainly bodes well for the Timberwolves. 

In the end, proving he can contribute to a winning team can help Kuminga earn a bigger contract down the road.

The Los Angeles Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers also have a clear need for a forward. Regardless, both teams have ample depth to take away minutes from Kuminga. 

As it stands, the Timberwolves' only two true forwards are Jaden McDaniels and Trey Lyles. All indications are that the Timberwolves want to keep McDaniels as a perimeter stopper, and Lyles was out of the league last season. To this end, there should be a significant amount of minutes available for Kuminga if he's willing to sign in Minnesota. 

Playing alongside McDaniels and Rudy Gobert should help maximize Kuminga's defensive upside. On the other side of the floor, LaMelo Ball's elite playmaking and the Timberwolves' run-and-gun style of play would perfectly suit Kuminga. 

Furthermore, Chris Finch's free-flowing offense would be an ideal fit for Kuminga. Now, the Wolves would need him to buy into more of a play-finishing role than a creator role, but that's doable, and Finch has long been known to get the most out of his players. 

Even if Kuminga prioritizes opportunity over money, it's worth wondering if he'll be willing to take a "prove-it" minimum contract. If he's not, the Timberwolves will need to make another roster move, likely involving Josh Green or Donte DiVincenzo (though the Timberwolves have been firmly against trading him).

Ultimately, though, Kuminga's desire for a sizable role could lead him straight to Minnesota. 

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