It's clear that the Minnesota Timberwolves' rotation is going to have to look different next season than it was last year. After losing Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Chris Finch and the coaching staff are going to have no choice but to lean more on the budding talent of Terrence Shannon Junior.
We knew from the moment he was drafted that Shannon had some exciting upside, the question was always just going to be whether that talent translated to the next level. Nearly immediately, we saw that what he brings to the table is absolutely invaluable and going to be more than enough to make a meaningful impact on the hardwood.
Shannon is a bulldozing forward that leans heavily into his physical style of play on both offense and defense. What makes this work for him is that he has such an NBA-ready body and did from the moment he stepped into the league. He can play with physicality against anyone and he doesn't shy away from contact, as Anthony Edwards noted back in March.
The fact that Minnesota didn't see it fit to sign anyone else when it comes to rotational options on the free agent market after losing Alexander-Walker seems to convey an even greater belief in Shannon's talents. He figures to be a major piece for this team moving forward.
Terrence Shannon Jr. should play significantly more in 2025-26
Now that we've established that Terrence is going to be very relevant in the Wolves' depth chart in 2025-26, the only question that remains is how relevant? Chris Finch loves playing his veterans and seems to only dive into giving younger guys minutes when he really has to, but I think this is going to be one of those situations where even he is going to be acknowledging he has no other choice.
So, who should Shannon be playing over when the season begins? It's hard to say he's done enough to earn a starting spot. The first five on the floor will likely be the same, and then Naz Reid and Donte DiVincenzo (health permitting) will be the first two guys off the bench.
Is it crazy to say I think Shannon should be the next player in line for minutes after them? There's of course other skilled guys down the bench, but I'm not sure any of them have done more to instill confidence in the Timberwolves' coaching staff than Terrence. Maybe if you want to say Jaylen Clark, but even that's not definitive in my view when you factor in both sides of the ball.
No matter how you slice it, Terrence Shannon Jr. figures to be a major part of Minnesota's season next year, and that's exciting for the fanbase to think about.