After waiving forward Enrique Freeman, the Minnesota Timberwolves now have an open two-way roster spot. Given the Wolves' lack of frontcourt depth, it feels likely that they'll sign a forward or center to this spot to round out their two-way room, which currently includes Zyon Pullin and Rocco Zikarsky.
While the Timberwolves waived Drew Timme on Saturday, they could bring him back on a two-way contract if he clears waivers. There's an intriguing pitch for Timme to fill this open two-way spot.
Timme offers plenty of offensive skill. He is a throwback post player with a ton of playmaking feel. The Gonzaga product isn't a good defender, but he can at least crash the glass. Timme's offensive skill set allows him to play the four or five, and he would give their frontcourt a different element.
Chris Finch noted that the Timberwolves can use size, someone who can pass, and serve as connective tissue. That sounds a lot like Timme. Given his skill set and the Wolves' familiarity with him, rounding out their two-way room with Timme makes a lot of sense.
Drew Timme fits the Timberwolves' needs
During 36 NBA games across two seasons, Timme has averaged 5.6 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists. He also had a strong preseason finale, scoring 18 points, seven rebounds, and three assists.
In all likelihood, whoever the Timberwolves sign to this final two-way spot won't play a big role. Finch rarely utilizes his two-way spots, and since the Timberwolves are positioned as contenders, this is understandable.
Still, having some frontcourt insurance would be nice, considering that Joan Beringer and Trey Lyles are the team's lone true frontcourt players off the bench. Timme stands out as a clear option. Now, Jon Krawczynski mentioned that the Timberwolves are exploring their options over the next few days. The Wolves could opt to sign someone on the open market, but it would be hard to find a two-way player as skilled as Timme, who is listed as a four-star prospect on Two-Way Talents.com.
Plus, Finch noted on Sunday that "All those guys that had been vying for that two-way are still all in play."
Even if someone like Trey Jemison is a marginal talent upgrade, Timme's familiarity with the system is a clear positive. Regardless, Timme checks a lot of boxes that the Timberwolves should be looking for, and I believe that he's the best option available.
An emergency big man is all you can ask for from the Wolves' final two-way player. You could argue this is Zikarsky's role, but he's far too raw. Nevertheless, Timme's offensive skill set and NBA experience could make the Wolves okay playing him in a pinch. Look, playing him big minutes wouldn't be ideal, but in case of injuries, he could provide some solid minutes.
I understand the Wolves waiving Timme to keep their options open, but that shouldn't close the door on giving him a two-way deal. He simply makes too much sense for what the Timberwolves need.
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