Terrence Shannon Jr. proves he doesn't belong in summer league after just 1 game

The Las Vegas portion of the NBA Summer League is officially underway. Notably, the Minnesota Timberwolves tipped off against the New Orleans Pelicans in the first game in Vegas. In this game, second-year wing Terrence Shannon Jr. racked up 20 points, nine assists, six rebounds, and two steals en route to a 98-91 Timberwolves win. This dominant performance sends a clear message that TSJ is too good to be playing in the summer league and that he's primed for a massive role.

Shannon's stellar summer league outing

As a rookie, Shannon averaged 10.6 minutes, 4.3 points, 1.3 rebounds, and an assist across 32 games. Regardless, his impact as a three-level scorer and high-energy defender was clear in flashes. Shannon’s biggest moment came during the Western Conference Finals when he poured in 15 points in 13 minutes en route to a Game 3 win. At 24 years old (25 by the end of the month), Shannon looked like a man among boys in his first summer league of the season. 

After not having a consistent role as a rookie, Shannon is primed to be a clear rotational player in his second year, particularly with the departure of Nickeil Alexander-Walker. The Wolves’ need for shot creation and wing play will make Shannon a crucial bench piece. Shannon's scoring abilities have always been impressive, and it was on full display in this game as his 20 points tied Leonard Miller for a team-high.

However, this game highlighted his impact as a playmaker. Shannon routinely made the right reads and focused on getting his teammates involved. Making an impact as a passer will further help Shannon replicate Alexander-Walker's role.

Considering his age and projected role with the team, Shannon likely won’t play the entire stint in Las Vegas. His first game demonstrates that he is in a different class compared to many younger players. As a projected rotational wing, playing in all four games (plus possible playoff games) in Vegas isn’t necessary for Shannon. Still, after not playing a ton as a rookie, some extra reps are definitely helpful, and it showed his immense impact.  

Shannon’s first summer league game is a reminder that he is already a legit NBA rotational player and will likely thrive with a bigger role. It also gave us a better look at his upside as a playmaker. Ultimately, the Timberwolves fans should be thrilled by this game and what it says about Shannon’s abilities.