After losing Nickeil Alexander-Walker to the Atlanta Hawks in free agency, second-year wing Terrence Shannon Jr. is poised for a bigger role. By not finding a clear replacement for Alexander-Walker, the Minnesota Timberwolves' belief in Shannon is clear. Shannon played in just 32 games, averaging just 10.6 minutes, 4.3 points, 1.5 rebounds, and an assist.
However, Shannon showed flashes of his upside, most notably scoring 35 points in 37 minutes during the last three games of the Western Conference finals. In Game 3 of the WCF, Shannon scored 15 points in 13 minutes during a Wolves win. Notably, Shannon outscored any Oklahoma City Thunder player in Game 3.
Moreover, Shannon notched 10-plus points in five of the eight games in which he received 20-plus minutes. Shannon's gifted three-level scoring abilities and versatility make him poised to handle a bigger role.
Terrence Shannon Jr. is set to have a breakout season
Undoubtedly, Shannon's best trait is his scoring abilities. The 6-foot-6 wing has an ideal blend of speed and strength, which allows him to constantly generate rim pressure and draw fouls. Impressively, Shannon shot 64.3 percent at the rim in the regular season and 70 percent at the rim in the playoffs.
In addition to Shannon's gifts as a scorer at the rim, he is a capable shooter both from beyond the arc and at the mid-range. For a Wolves team that could use an extra scoring punch off the bench, Shannon's presence will be vital, and he should quickly earn the trust of Chris Finch. At 25, Shannon is well-positioned to thrive in this bigger role.
Shannon can also provide defensive energy. He often forces turnovers and is capable of guarding multiple positions. Shannon might be used more as a playmaker and ball-handler, given the Wolves' roster needs. Regardless, Shannon is poised to have a key role off the bench.
Of the Wolves' four young players (Shannon, Rob Dillingham, Jaylen Clark, and Joan Beringer), Shannon has the most polished skill set. Shannon perfectly fills the Wolves' backup wing void. Given the flashes he showed last season and his impressive skill set, it's not far-fetched to believe that Shannon will crack double-digit points.
This, paired with Shannon's all-around skill set, could make this year a true breakout season for the Illinois product. It's not impossible that Shannon will get some Most Improved Player buzz, although being a second-year player could hurt his case. Nevertheless, Shannon perfectly complements Anthony Edwards, which could make him a long-term piece of the Wolves' core. All signs point to Shannon having a massive second season, and the NBA community will soon take notice of the second-year wing.