4. Shake Milton
The Wolves signed Milton to improve their guard depth. They were searching for a backup point guard to play behind Mike Conley, and Milton’s ball-handling and playmaking improved in 2023. The 27-year-old got a two-year deal worth $10 million, but it has not gone as planned.
The 6’5 guard has fallen out of the rotation in Minnesota. He is shooting just 37.8 percent from the field and 25.5 percent on his 3-point tries after 27 contests. Since Dec. 12, Milton has played in just five of the team’s ten games and topped six minutes only twice.
His $5 million salary is non-guaranteed for next season, so he is virtually an expiring salary. Minnesota can package his contract with another deal to take back a significant contract. The pressure is on, especially if the Timberwolves plan on being over the second tax apron next season. They must upgrade their roster now before the tighter restrictions kick in during the offseason.
Shake Milton won’t have much trade value after falling out of the 76ers rotation in the playoffs last season and not being part of the Timberwolves mix this year. Still, 6’5 wings who have made over 35 percent of their career 3-pointers are hard to find. Do not be surprised to see him on the block before the Feb. 8 trade deadline.