Timberwolves Summer League awards: MVP, best rookie, and more
By Austin McGee
The Minnesota Timberwolves' Summer League ended on a high note after the Wolves defeated the Orlando Magic 115-100 on July 21. Following a porous showing in last summer's event, Minnesota won four of five contests this time around. The Timberwolves were one of eight teams to win four or more contests.
While NBA championship contenders aren't usually the prime contenders for a Summer League championship, the Wolves proved otherwise as they narrowly missed a shot to compete for the Summer League crown. Minnesota only lost one game in the exhibition season, a close 92-90 contest against the Philadelphia 76ers.
Although the team's success was apparent and an indicator of future success, the Summer League is more geared toward the players and development. Coinciding with a fantastic record, the Wolves' young squad showed out in July. Six Timberwolves averaged double-digits and four recorded games of 20 points or more.
All in all, this Summer League season was full of triumphs for the Timberwolves. Considering Minnesota's success, we've handed out hypothetical awards for best undrafted free agent, best rookie, best veteran, and the Summer League MVP. Find out which player brings home each award below.
Best undrafted free agent: Nadir Hifi
To kick things off, French-born undrafted guard Nadir Hifi showed a ton of promise in the three games he suited up for. The 22-year-old point guard averaged 11.3 points, 1.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.3 steals in only 13.6 minutes per game.
Hifi looked decisive and wise beyond his years. Although he was nowhere near draft boards, Hifi's efficiency and sound decision-making likely made scouts second-guess their metrics following his three Summer League showings. In Hifi's best performance, he dropped 18 points and connected on all seven free throws.
Besides Hifi, former West Virginia product Jesse Edwards' game improved as the exhibition season marched on. The seven-footer's best games were the fourth and fifth contests. He scored six points and grabbed 10 boards as the Wolves defeated the Indiana Pacers on July 18. And in Minnesota's final game, he scored 11 points, knocking down 3-of-5 field goals.