NBA two-way contract players are easy to overlook. That's especially true in the context of the Minnesota Timberwolves, who rarely play their two-way guys. However, across the league, we've seen two-way players carve out a meaningful role or contribute minutes in a pinch.
With that in mind, let's take a look at the Timberwolves' three two-way players and who has the best chance to earn a regular role. This list will factor in both plug-and-play ability and long-term upside. Let's dig in!
3. Enrique Freeman
Honestly, if I were simply basing this list on who I'd want this season, Enrique Freeman would be second on this list. Regardless, at 26, Freeman's upside is limited, so I have to knock him down a touch.
Freeman is a gritty forward who crashes the glass and can guard multiple positions. Offensively, he is a solid play-finisher around the rim. Unfortunately, Freeman's jump shot isn't NBA-ready. He shot 32.7 percent from beyond the arc in the G League, and in college he netted 35 percent of his triples on less than one attempt per game. Furthermore, he barely posted a positive assist-to-turnover ratio in the G League last season.
These flaws, paired with his age, slot him in at third despite the possible impact the game as a high- energy forward.
2. Rocco Zikarsky
In terms of raw upside, Rocco Zikarsky would have to be at the top of this list. He is a 7-foot-3 big man who has flashed solid comfort with the ball in his hands and as a shooter. This intersection of size and skill makes Zikarsky an enticing long-term player.
The problem with Zikarsky is that his skill set is hypothetical at this stage. In summer league, Zikarsky averaged 12.2 points while shooting 50 percent from the field and 21.4 percent from deep range. He often forced up ill-advised shots. Defensively, Zikarsky is slow-footed and easy to attack in the pick-and-roll.
If Zikarsky can put everything together, the Timberwolves could have a quality backup big man. That's a big if, though.
1. Zyon Pullin
Zyon Pullin is an easy pick for the top spot. His stellar summer league play is enough to warrant a standard contract in my eyes. Notably, he averaged 21.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 7.8 assists in Las Vegas. Pullin has remarkable poise and controls the game like a classic floor general. All the same, he is a skilled three-level scorer and quality defender for his size.
At 25, Pullin doesn't have crazy upside. Nevertheless, he could be a late bloomer who carves out an NBA role. Frankly, there's nobody else in Minnesota's two-way room whom I feel this confident about in both short- and long-term. At the very least, he can be a high-end emergency guard.
Now, the Wolves' loaded guard rotation will make it difficult for Pullin to earn an opportunity. Still, if he does get one, he may never look back.
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