As first reported by Michael Scotto, the Minnesota Timberwolves have inked training camp deals with Drew Timme and KJ Martin. Frankly, the chances of either player earning the Wolves' open standard roster spot are slim to none. Earlier this week, Chris Finch said that the Wolves are unlikely to fill this final roster spot for salary and flexibility reasons.
While Martin is ineligible for a two-way contract, Timme still has some two-way eligibility. That's where I could see this move having some real implications for the Wolves.
It's no secret that the Wolves' frontcourt depth is a concern, with Joan Beringer and Trey Lyles as their only two reserve frontcourt players. And while the Wolves typically don't use their two-way players, an emergency frontcourt player would benefit Minnesota. Currently, Zyon Pullin, Enrique Freeman, and Rocco Zikarsky make up the Wolves' two-way room, with Freeman being a forward and Zikarsky being a 7-foot-3 center.
Like most two-way players, Timme isn't someone you'd feel comfortable with playing heavy NBA minutes, but he has more experience and pro-ready skills than Freeman and Zikarsky. Since Zikarsky is still just 20 years old and a recent second-round pick, Freeman would likely be the odd man out if Timme looks good enough to earn a two-way contract in training camp and preseason.
Why Drew Timme could earn a two-way contract with the Timberwolves
Timme is well-known because of his illustrious college career at Gonzaga. As a silky-smooth post scorer, Timme is a throwback player.
Unfortunately, Timme hasn't been able to parlay this college career into NBA success. His lack of athleticism, inability to guard in space, and subpar shooting put a clear cap on his ceiling.
Nevertheless, Timme has been a force in the G League. Last season, he averaged 23.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.8 assists with the South Bay Lakers. He also appeared in 27 games with Los Angeles and played in 12 games with the Brooklyn Nets in the 2024-25 season.
At 6-foot-9, 235 pounds, Timme can function as either a power forward or center. Something that might catch the Wolves' eye, given their roster needs. Between his ability to score around the rim, high playmaking feel, and tenacious rebounding, Timme could make an impact when called upon.
As noted, I think he will primarily be competing with Freeman for a two-way spot. At 6-foot-7 with a 7-foot-2 wingspan, Freeman has ideal measurements for an NBA forward. He is a disruptive defender with a high motor who can crash the glass.
However, Freeman's offensive skill set is limited, especially compared to Timme's. Notably, Freeman averaged 16.5 points in the G League last year and 7.4 points in summer league. He doesn't offer much shot creation, nor does he have great touch around the rim. Unfortunately, Freeman's limited offensive skill makes it difficult to envision him playing minutes, even in a pinch.
If the Timberwolves want someone with more offensive skill who can play both center and forward, Timme has a clear path to earning a two-way spot, with Freeman becoming the odd man out.
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