The Minnesota Timberwolves have numerous options to fill out the final roster spot. Since Johnny Juzang was released, it's fair to suggest that the Wolves will look to sign a veteran on the buyout market. However, this isn't their only option, as they could look around the league and sign a current two-way player to a standard deal.
Maybe it's that I'm eternally optimistic about every young player, but this is the route I'd like to see the Wolves go down. There are plenty of intriguing options who are currently on two-way contracts, but Dillon Jones stands out to me as a realistic and exciting option.
Signing Dillon Jones is an interesting option for the Timberwolves
Jones was drafted in the first round by the Oklahoma City Thunder back in 2024. After not being able to earn minutes with the eventual champs, Jones was traded to the Washington Wizards in the offseason. He ultimately was waived and found his way to New York in January after a successful G League stint.
Regardless, as a second-year player, Jones' upside is clear. Listen, whoever the Wolves sign to their final roster spot isn't going to play significant minutes. I understand the opposite perspective, but for me, I'd rather this spot go to a young player who could possibly develop down the road.
I'm intrigued by Jones' well-rounded skill set and think if he sticks around, there's a path where he earns minutes in the future. Jones is a 6-foot-5 forward who thrives as a downhill scorer. Additionally, Jones is a tenacious rebounder, versatile defender, and solid secondary playmaker.
In the G League, Jones is averaging 16.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 6.1 assists. According to Finn Kuehl's Two-Way Talents.Com, Jones is a four-star two-way player.
Jones' playstyle makes him somewhat similar to Terrence Shannon Jr. Thus far, Shannon has struggled when he's been on the court. If these struggles continue, getting another young wing option could be logical -- especially with Jaylen Clark entering (restricted) free agency this summer.
And yes, I understand if the Wolves wanted this option, they could have just kept Juzang. Nevertheless, Jones brings a different element of versatility and is in just his second season. Conversely, Juzang is in year four and is more of a pure spot-up shooter.
In the end, I don't think the Wolves' final roster spot will go to Jones (or another young player). However, they should absolutely consider signing Jones (or another two-way player), especially given the underwhelming options on the buyout market.