For quite some time now, the Minnesota Timberwolves have been linked to potentially adding another point guard in free agency. Of late, though, one name has popped up frequently: Bones Hyland. While his signing is not yet official, Jake Fischer of The Stein Line threw more fire on the wood regarding him being re-added by the Wolves. Fishcher's report backs up what The Athletic's Jon Krawczynski has previously reported.
Jake Fischer reaffirms Timberwolves' interest in Bones Hyland
Jake Fischer released his latest newsletter through Substack on Friday. Much of it involved Jonathan Kuminga news, but he did include one sentence on the Timberwolves.
"Minnesota has two open spots and the Timberwolves, sources say, would like to have Bones Hyland back in the fold. "Jake Fischer
Turning 25 years old on September 14, Hyland must have made a strong impression on the franchise since he was with them for a very brief period. The 6-foot-1 guard was added on a two-way contract by the Wolves in late February.
Getting on the court for Minnesota was a rare occurrence. Hyland appeared in just four games for them for a total of 17 minutes (did not appear in a postseason contest). He scored five points and dished out four assists.
Other teams have lost faith in Hyland
It seems a bit odd that the Timberwolves are so keen on bringing back Hyland. For a team with championship aspirations, looking for a more established player might be the better route, especially when they are counting on so many young, not yet fully proven players (Rob Dillingham, Terrence Shannon Jr., and Jaylen Clark).
While bringing back Hyland could be seen as a vote of confidence in Dillingham, what happens if the extended workload comes too soon for the 20-year-old? The 2024 eighth overall pick is coming off a rookie season where Chris Finch never seemed to fully trust him, especially in the playoffs.
Hyland has already fallen out of favor with two teams who like Minnesota, that had goals of going deep into the playoffs (Nuggets and Clippers). The Hawks added him at last season’s trade deadline, but waived him two days later before he appeared in a game for them. Hyland remained unsigned for about two and a half weeks prior to the Timberwolves adding him on a two-way.
The interest in Hyland seems a little baffling, especially since so little of him was seen with Minnesota last season. While nothing is yet official, it seems like many believe Hyland will be on the Timberwolves roster for the 2025-26 season.