Naz Reid established himself as one of the league's best bench players during his seven-year stint with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Due to his improbable journey to success, entertaining playstyle, and work within the community, Reid became the ultimate fan favorite. Still, it was clear that Reid had another level to reach—one that he wouldn't reach as a sixth man.
For about 36 hours, it looked like Reid was going to get an opportunity to start with the Timberwolves. Of course, though, he was traded to the Charlotte Hornets in a deal that landed Minnesota LaMelo Ball.
Reid is already taking full advantage of his first opportunity as a starter. Through three games with the Hornets, Reid is averaging 20 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 3 assists. This is a sizable jump from the 13.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists he averaged during his last three seasons with the Wolves. Reid is also averaging 5.9 more field goal attempts. If this trend continues, he could be a Most Improved Player candidate.
So yeah, it's safe to say that he's handling a scaled-up role well.
Naz Reid never had an opportunity to reach his ceiling in Minnesota
Playing behind Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert for two years, and then Julius Randle and Gobert for two more years, Reid never had a chance to be a starter. As such, the Wolves were holding him back from reaching his ceiling.
To be clear, this isn't some major criticism of the organization. Chris Finch unleashed him as best he could. Moreover, Tim Connelly signed him to a five-year, $125 million contract. KAT was well established when Reid entered the league. Trading for Gobert helped transform their defense and become contenders. Reid wasn't good enough to justify them not making this trade back in 2022.
Not trading KAT for a guard, or not exploring sign-and-trade options for Randle in 2025, are valid criticisms. But what was the market for Randle, and could they have saved money and found an All-Star-level player at another position in the Towns trade? In the end, things worked out as the Wolves eventually landed an ideal co-star for Anthony Edwards in Ball.
Regardless, it's clear that the Wolves' loaded frontcourt prevented Reid from reaching another level. Furthermore, given his unique blend of size and skill, it shouldn't be a surprise that Reid has scaled up. In fact, it's something countless fans speculated. After the trade to the Hornets, I mentioned that there was a strong possibility that Reid would level up.
Reid showcased his ability to create for himself and handle the ball in flashes with the Wolves, but he was primarily used as a spot-up shooter. To those who watched the Wolves closely, it was clear that with more responsibility, Reid had the talent and on-ball skill needed to make a jump. He's proving this in Charlotte.
Overall, it's hard for Timberwolves fans not to smile watching Reid thrive in Charlotte.
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