The Minnesota Timberwolves have kept two open roster spots for most of the offseason. However, they recently signed 6-foot-7 guard Johnny Juzang. This contract is only a training camp deal. The Wolves will have to fill at least one of their two open roster spots. Juzang has shown flashes of being a quality NBA player and thus has a strong chance to make the roster.
The Wolves signed Johnny Juzang to a training camp deal, source says.
— Dane Moore (@DaneMooreNBA) August 1, 2025
Minnesota will need to fill at least one more roster spot before the beginning of the season, and Juzang will compete for that spot in training camp.
After this move, the Wolves may sign multiple players to training camp deals to compete for a roster spot. Given the Wolves' high payroll, it’s possible they keep one roster spot open for some increased flexibility.
The Wolves already have a 10-man rotation, so they are likely looking for more depth pieces. Adding a player like Malcolm Brogdon, who could command big minutes, isn’t ideal given how it would impact young players such as Rob Dillingham. For the Wolves, getting a player who will serve as a depth piece but can play minutes if need be is logical. Since this is only a training camp deal, there’s no risk involved.
The Wolves are likely to have multiple players competing for a roster spot in training camp
Signing Juzang reflects a clear strategy; the Wolves are unlikely to sign a big-name free agent like Brogdon. Instead, they are likely to sign more players (presumably younger players) to training camp deals to compete for the open roster spots. As mentioned earlier, with the Wolves' loaded rotation, this avenue makes a lot of sense.
It isn't uncommon for teams to sign multiple players to training camp deals, but having two open roster spots is fairly uncommon, making this open competition path intriguing.
The Wolves also signed Enrique Freeman to a two-way contract shortly after signing Juzang. While this won’t impact the main roster, it shows the Wolves are focused on young talent. Another advantage is that the Wolves can see how each player fits with the team in training camp before making any final roster decisions.
This will ensure the Wolves are signing the best player(s) for their team and needs. Juzang isn’t guaranteed a roster spot. Nevertheless, his skill set makes him a clear candidate to earn one with the Wolves.
Juzang is a perfect fit with the Wolves
Juzang has been productive throughout his three-year NBA career. This past year with the Utah Jazz, Juzang appeared in 64 games (18 starts), averaging 8.9 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.1 assists with 42.9/37.6/84.9 shooting splits. Juzang notched 15-plus points on six occasions. The UCLA product is a gifted shot creator, which could help the Wolves fill a key need for perimeter shot creation.
Assuming Juzang makes the roster, he likely won’t be part of the rotation. However, if injuries arise or one of the Wolves' young guys is struggling, Juzang could certainly get an opportunity. At 24, it’s also possible that Juzang develops into a legit rotation player. Overall, Juzang’s blend of perimeter scoring and size makes him an ideal piece for the Wolves' bench.