4 Timberwolves who aren't living up to expectations thus far

3. Troy Brown Jr.

The Timberwolves upgraded their wing depth in the offseason by signing Brown Jr. and Shake Milton, drafting Leonard Miller, and bringing back Nickeil Alexander-Walker. They wanted role players behind Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels who offered floor spacing and defensive versatility.

Brown Jr. inked a two-year contract worth $8 million, but his minutes continue to decline. He has stayed in the rotation but hasn’t been on the floor for more than ten minutes in a game since Dec. 16. For the season, Brown Jr. averages 4.8 points and 2.2 rebounds in just 12.7 minutes per game, and it is unclear if Minnesota will even bring him back for year two of his deal.

Last season, he played 24.5 each night for the Lakers as he averaged 7.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 0.8 steals and shot 38.1 percent from 3-point range. He slipped from their playoff rotation, but the 24-year-old is still improving.

The Minnesota Timberwolves hoped he could play 20-plus minutes per game (subscription required) and give them a switchable defender who spaces the floor. The 6’6 wing is underperforming expectations and on the fringes of their rotation. Minnesota could be in a tough spot with their second unit if Troy Brown Jr. or one of their offseason wing additions do not step up quickly.