It wasn’t that long ago that Kyle Anderson played two seasons for the Timberwolves. Nicknamed ‘Slo-Mo’, for his methodical, yet mostly effective, style of play, he was a member of Minnesota’s roster in 2022-23 and 2023-24. While many fans will remember the viral moment of Rudy Gobert taking a swing at him, Anderson played a large role in the team making the playoffs in 2023.
The following year, he was a key reserve on a Western Conference finals team. As a potential buyout candidate, a reunion should be welcomed with open arms by the Wolves fan base.
Kyle Anderson and Rudy Gobert had to be separated after a heated altercation during a timeout. pic.twitter.com/HVuPNdjrxs
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) April 9, 2023
Kyle Anderson could become available
Turning 32 years old on September 20, Anderson has been traded three times over the past year. In July of 2024, the Timberwolves dealt him to the Warriors. At last season’s trade deadline, the 6-foot-9 forward was traded to the Heat as part of the Jimmy Butler deal. Earlier this month, Anderson got traded to the Jazz.
Now, Kevin Love was also traded to Utah in that deal, certainly a player that brings more memories to Minnesota fans compared to Anderson. He turns 37 years old in early September, though, and isn’t the impactful player he was in his earlier days.
On a clearly rebuilding Jazz team, Anderson is not going to be a part of their long-term future. That’s why he is a clear buyout candidate, and one Minnesota should explore reuniting with if he becomes available.
Anderson would provide veteran leadership and depth to team
If Anderson were to rejoin the Wolves, less playing time would likely be in store for him. He averaged 25.3 minutes per contest in his two prior seasons with the team.
The Timberwolves could use another veteran piece off the bench other than Naz Reid and Donte DiVincenzo. Yes, they re-signed Joe Ingles, but he is someone who will play little meaningful minutes, just like last season.
Anderson is still a quality defender, one who averaged 2.6 ‘stocks’ per 36 minutes last season (same as his career mark). If Chris Finch doesn’t want to throw Terrence Shannon Jr., Rob Dillingham, or Jaylen Clark out there for lengthy periods, Anderson is still a quality player for 10-15 minutes a night. He also won’t look out of place as someone who plays longer stints during games where a frontcourt piece is out of action.
In a season with championship aspirations, the Timberwolves could do way worse with one of their two open roster spots than bring back Kyle Anderson.