Minnesota Timberwolves big man Naz Reid has been an elite sixth man over the past few seasons. Reid earned a five-year $125 million deal this summer, highlighting his value to the team. While many people discuss Reid's rare blend of size (6-foot-9), shooting, and shot creation, his playmaking often goes under the radar.
Notably, Reid is coming off a season where he averaged a career high 2.3 assists. His previous career high was 1.3 assists, so this was a significant leap. Additionally, Reid posted an impressive 12.3 assist percentage and a 1.68 assist-to-turnover ratio. Reid's guard-like skills make him a key part of the Wolves' success, and it's possible he'll be more crucial than ever to the team this season.
As the Wolves aim to make a finals run following two straight conference finals, Reid's impact as a scorer and playmaker will be key.
Reid's playmaking will be vital the Timberwolves' success
One notable flaw with the Wolves is their lack of playmaking. Mike Conley is turning 38 before the start of the season. It's unclear if Rob Dillingham is ready for a bigger role in his second season. At 33, Rudy Gobert might also see a slight reduction in minutes, opening the door for Reid to play more.
Of course, Reid won't be used as an offensive hub or lead ball handler. However, his secondary creation and playmaking abilities will be crucial. Given this, it's fair to expect another career high in assists for Reid and that the Wolves will lean into his playmaking more.
Reid's versatility as a passer stands out. He is capable of making drive-and-kick passes, lob dimes, operating out of the high post, and one-mores. The LSU product's knack for self-creation lends him to making passes off drives, whether that's kicking it to the open man in the corner or lobbing it up for an easy dunk. Ultimately, Reid's all-around abilities as a passer, paired with his impressive scoring chops, make him a gifted offensive threat.
Naz Reid passing highlights '24-25 pic.twitter.com/SRAVYLMtzS
— Eamon Cassels (@EamonCassels) October 2, 2025
Reid won Sixth Man of the Year in 2023-24, but finished just fifth last season. Nevertheless, Reid is in a prime position to win his second Sixth Man of the Year award this season. His three-level scoring and shot creation will always keep him in these conversations. However, Reid's playmaking will be vital to his impact and will bolster his Sixth Man of the Year candidacy.
Having an extra playmaker, especially with Reid's size, will be beneficial to the Wolves throughout the season and in the playoffs. Overall, as the Wolves attempt to remedy their lack of playmaking and get over the championship hump, Reid's passing could be a bigger factor than many are expecting.