Terrence Shannon Jr. just gave the Timberwolves exactly what they've been missing

While the Minnesota Timberwolves fell short against the Oklahoma City Thunder 113-105 on Wednesday night, there were several encouraging aspects of this game. Terrence Shannon Jr.'s performance is at the top of the list. In 17 minutes, Shannon poured in 18 points (while netting all seven of his field goal attempts), two rebounds, and an assist.

Shannon came into Wednesday's game averaging just 3.4 points, 2.3 rebounds, and an assist on 31/33.3/71.4 shooting splits. The second-year wing missed nine games with a foot injury, but when TSJ was on the court, he didn't provide much impact, including in his first game back from injury on Monday. That all changed on Wednesday, though, as Shannon put together the best game of his young career so far.

Coming into the NBA, Shannon's selling point was that he was a fearless shot creator and an at-the-rim finisher. He showed flashes of this in his rookie season, so much so that the Wolves felt comfortable enough not to replace Nickeil Alexander-Walker. However, throughout much of the season, Shannon lacked decisiveness when attacking the rim and couldn't hit a shot from beyond the arc.

Wednesday was a different story, though. Shannon looked confident and made decisive decisions. He attacked the rim with elite force and hit three shots from beyond the arc. Additionally, TSJ played solid defense and made smart decisions. While the Wolves ultimately lost the game, Shannon provided them with the bench spark they needed, and he helped them stay competitive throughout the game.

A consistent TSJ would greatly benefit the Wolves

For the season, Minnesota ranks 28th in bench scoring. Naz Reid is the only player on the Wolves bench who has been able to provide consistent scoring production. However, if Shannon can put it together, that could change everything for the 10-8 Wolves. Frankly, if the Wolves can't get regular production out of Shannon, Rob Dillingham, or Jaylen Clark, their season will be in a dark place.

Nevertheless, Shannon's performance could be a turning point for both him and the team. Is Shannon going to average 18 points a game? Absolutely not, but he very well could average within double digits or just below this range. Having this scoring punch off the bench would be a massive boost for a Wolves team that has been fairly top-heavy this season.

At his best, Shannon can provide both high-level rim finishing and outside shooting.

Shannon's 18 points led the way as the Wolves notched 38 bench points. Yes, it's only one game, but playing this well against an elite Thunder defense makes Shannon's performance even more significant. Notably, Shannon also scored 35 points in the last three games of the Western Conference finals against OKC. Simply put, if Shannon can do this against the Thunder, he can do it against anyone.

Ultimately, Shannon will have to prove that he can consistently provide value for the rest of the season. Regardless, there's no denying that Shannon's performance was an encouraging sign that could help turn the tide for the Wolves.