Former Minnesota Timberwolves wing Nickeil Alexander-Walker left the team in free agency, signing with the Atlanta Hawks. His return to Minnesota will be anticipated by Timberwolves fans. However, the NBA dropped the ball with the schedule release. Alexander-Walker's return to Minnesota on February 9 won't be nationally televised. Additionally, the Wolves will first travel to Atlanta on December 31.
While it might not seem like the biggest deal to a neutral observer, this will be a big moment for Wolves fans. It's the little things that matter with the NBA schedule, and having the first game being in Atlanta paired with his return to Minnesota not being nationally televised is unfortunate for Wolves fans.
The Hawks are also projected to be a competitive team, which would make for an entertaining and unique nationally televised game. Even if the NBA didn't want to put this game on National TV, having the first game in Minnesota would have been an easy choice.
Alexander-Walker's return to Minnesota will still be special for Wolves fans
Alexander-Walker arrived in Minnesota after being traded by the Utah Jazz. During his two-and-a-half-year tenure with the Wolves, he averaged 8.4 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists with 43.3/38.4/77 shooting splits. NAW not only got his career back on track with the Wolves, but he also established himself as one of the league's best role players. His blend of on-ball defense, spot-up shooting, and secondary playmaking makes NAW incredibly well-rounded. This skill set also made Alexander-Walker a fan favorite.
During both of Alexander-Walker's two full seasons with the Wolves, they made the conference finals, and he was a key part of that success. As a result, Wolves fans will surely give him a warm welcome back.
The Hawks have a much-improved roster, and landing NAW was a key part of their offseason. However, they also traded for Kristaps Porziņģis and signed Luke Kennard. This sets up a highly competitive game. Alexander-Walker will likely defend Anthony Edwards at various points of the game. Basketball-wise, it will be interesting to see the two players go head-to-head, and simply from a storyline standpoint, this will be fun to see. This matchup would have an ideal and exciting under-the-radar nationally televised showdown.
Overall, February 9 will be an anticipated date for all Timberwolves fans. While it's unfortunate that this isn't one of the Wolves' 28 nationally televised games, NAW's return to the Target Center will still be exciting for Wolves fans.