Timberwolves don't have to search far to fill their final roster spot

Converting Johnny Juzang makes a lot of sense.
Jan 8, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch questions a referee on a call for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images
Jan 8, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch questions a referee on a call for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images | Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images

Despite officially bringing back Mike Conley, the Minnesota Timberwolves still have an open roster spot. To me, Johnny Juzang feels like the most likely player to earn this open spot. Currently on a two-way deal, converting Juzang feels like the perfect way for the Wolves to round out their roster. 

Juzang has been active for 49 games. Per NBA rules, two-way players can only be active for 50 games. As such, Juzang's eligibility is running out. Simply put, I don't think the Wolves would continue to activate Juzang if the plan wasn't to convert his contract at some point. 

Nevertheless, waiting until April is the most prudent financially. Conversely, if the Wolves sign someone on the buyout market, they'd have to do so by March 1. 

Another reason I think Juzang will get converted is due to the underwhelming options on the buyout market. Confirmed buyout players include Lonzo Ball, Eric Gordon, Chris Boucher, Georges Niang, Dario Saric, and Mason Plumlee. I'd rather have Juzang than any of those players -- there's no doubt.  Now, maybe a better buyout option emerges, but it currently looks grim.

Juzang is the perfect player to round out the Timberwolves' roster

Whoever the Wolves roundout their roster with won't crack the rotation, so I'd rather stick with the 24-year-old Juzang. Plus, as mentioned, there are some financial benefits of simply converting Juzang's contract. 

While Juzang hasn't played much this season, he still has potential to blossom into a rotational player one day, and frankly, feels overqualified to be on a two-way contract. Before signing with the Wolves, Juzang spent two seasons with the Utah Jazz, where he was a quality rotational player. During his past two seasons with the Jazz, Juzang averaged 8.5 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.1 assists on 43.6/38.4/82.1 shooting splits. 

Juzang is already a high-level shooter, which could allow him to earn minutes. Now on a competitive Wolves team that's tricky -- but he's still young. If the Wolves keep Juzang around, I wouldn't be surprised if he could carve out a rotational role next season. 

Whether it's finishing, playmaking, or defense, adding another element to his game would help Juzang earn a more consistent role. Regardless, given the other buyout options out there, I don't think any of them have the same upside as Juzang. 

Ultimately, considering talent, upside, and finances, Juzang seems like the ideal choice to earn the Wolves' final roster spot. I wouldn't be shocked if this final spot goes to a buyout player, but Juzang seems like the most likely candidate. 

Loading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations