This offseason, the Timberwolves had decisions to make on three key free agents. The expectation is that it would be highly unlikely to re-sign all three of them. Minnesota agreed to long-term deals with Naz Reid and Julius Randle. The other notable free agent, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, left for the Hawks.
Through their first 16 games, the question as to who would be the main replacement for Alexander-Walker this season remains unanswered.
Haven't seen much improvement from Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr.
On Monday, ESPN posted an article in which they asked a question for the 16 teams that have at least a 1.5% chance of reaching the NBA finals according to their Basketball Power Index. The question asked of the Timberwolves is: Can the Timberwolves replace Nickeil Alexander-Walker in-house?
There were 3 names entering the season that were expected to have the opportunity to receive more playing time. They were 2024 first round picks Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr., as well as 2023 second round pick Jaylen Clark. Thus far, Clark has received the most trust from Chris Finch, particularly because of his defensive acumen. Dillingham and Shannon Jr. are still trying to gain their footing. As the article states,
"Given the Timberwolves' depleted draft assets, developing a replacement for Alexander-Walker is critical. Thus far, 2024 first-round picks Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr. (currently sidelined by a bone bruise in his left foot) are both shooting under 40% effective field goal percentage, limiting their playing time."
Shannon Jr. has missed the last nine games, but he is questionable to return Monday night. The 25-year-old was in a huge rut prior to getting hurt. Meanwhile, Dillingham is barely in the rotation, receiving less than 10 minutes in five of his last six outings.
Alexander-Walker is excelling in his first season with the Hawks
Now 27 years old, Alexander-Walker joined the Hawks on a four-year deal worth $60+ million.
In his seventh NBA season, the 6-foot-5 wing is in the midst of a career-best season. He has started 13 of his 16 appearances and is averaging 19.3 points. That’s quite the increase for a player who averaged double figures in scoring in just two of his first six years.
Realistically, Alexander-Walker getting re-signed by Minnesota this past offseason didn’t seem likely. Unfortunately, the team is still looking for the best way to fill his important minutes off the bench.