Timberwolves, center Naz Reid agree on 3-year, $42M deal
Minnesota Timberwolves center Naz Reid has reached an agreement with the team on a new three-year, $42 million contract, according to his agents, Sean Kennedy and Jeff Schwartz of Excel Sports Management. The deal includes a player option, allowing Reid the opportunity to negotiate another contract in two years.
Reid, who arrived at the Timberwolves as an undrafted player, has developed into a key player for the franchise. Despite suffering a season-ending wrist fracture that kept him out of the final weeks of the regular season, the play-in tournament, and the Western Conference playoffs, Reid had his best season, averaging 11.5 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. The Timberwolves clearly missed his presence in their opening-round loss to the Denver Nuggets, who went on to win the NBA championship.
The Timberwolves faced the risk of losing Reid in free agency, but negotiations between Kennedy, Schwartz, and Timberwolves president Tim Connelly resulted in a deal being reached. Reid’s emergence as a bench player behind Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert in the Timberwolves’ frontcourt made him an attractive target throughout the league. He also showcased his shooting ability, making 53.7 percent of his shots and 34.6 percent of his 3-point attempts.
Reid’s performance after the All-Star break was particularly impressive, as he scored 242 points in just 312 minutes of playing time. According to ESPN Stats & Information research, only MVP Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers averaged more points per minute during that period. NBA Finals MVP Nikola Jokic ranked third.
At 24 years old, Reid would have become an unrestricted free agent despite his age due to the four-year deal he signed with the Timberwolves during his rookie year. However, the new contract ensures that he will remain with the team for the foreseeable future.
The agreement between Reid and the Timberwolves is a significant move for both parties. Reid’s development and potential make him a valuable asset for the team, while the contract provides financial security and the opportunity for future negotiations. With Reid’s return, the Timberwolves will look to build upon their promising young core and compete in the highly competitive Western Conference.
ESPN’s Tim Bontemps contributed to this report.
How did Naz Reid’s status as an undrafted player affect his initial contract negotiations with the Minnesota Timberwolves?
The Minnesota Timberwolves have signed center Naz Reid to a lucrative three-year contract worth $42 million, as confirmed by his agents, Sean Kennedy and Jeff Schwartz of Excel Sports Management. This deal also includes a player option, giving Reid the flexibility to explore his options for another contract in two years.
Reid’s journey with the Timberwolves began as an undrafted player. However, he has proven his worth and emerged as a crucial player for the team.
Great move by the Timberwolves! Naz Reid’s contract extension reflects the team’s confidence in his talent and potential. He’s shown promise and this deal ensures stability for both player and organization. Exciting times ahead for Minnesota fans!
Great move by the Timberwolves! Locking in Naz Reid with a 3-year, $42M contract extension ensures they have a promising talent on their roster for the long haul. Excited to see his continued growth and impact on the team.