Undoubtedly, Naz Reid is a beloved player by Minnesota Timberwolves fans. It's easy to see why, the former undrafted player transformed himself into a Sixth Man of the Year winner and an indispensable part of the Wolves. Furthermore, Reid's blend of self-creation, size, shooting, and playmaking is entertaining to watch. I think every Wolves fan was happy to see that Reid earned a fresh five-year $125 million contract this summer.
However, this young season has been defined by inconsistency for both Reid and the team. It's not far-fetched to say the team has gone as Reid has gone this season. In the Wolves' four wins, Reid has averaged 15.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.5 assists on 56.4/50/81.8 shooting splits. Conversely, in the Wolves' four losses, Reid has averaged 8.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.5 assists on 34.2/25/33.3 shooting splits.
Listen, you can't win all 82 games, and complementary players like Reid can't play well in every single game. Nevertheless, Reid needs to establish some level of consistency for the Wolves to rise up the standings.
Naz Reid's impact changes the Wolves' outlook
Reid's presence as a microwave scorer off the bench is vital. The Wolves know they can count on Anthony Edwards, Julius Randle, and Jaden McDaniels every night. However, what they get from their supporting players, including Reid, is a real question.
The Wolves have leaned on their bench scoring, especially from Reid, over the past few seasons. Now, without Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Mike Conley assuming a bench role, the Wolves are more dependent on Reid's scoring than ever before. Minnesota has plummeted to 28th in bench points.
For whatever reason, Reid's impact wasn't tied to the Wolves winning. In fact, he averaged more points (15.7) in losses than wins (13.2). Now perhaps, Reid finds his groove with Edwards back in the mix. Likewise, it will be easier for the Wolves to overcome Reid's bad nights with Edwards. Regardless, finding some level of consistency from their fourth option will be crucial.
Reid is now being paid like the team's fifth-best player, so he needs to deliver consistent scoring. If Reid's play continues to be tied to the Wolves' success, that's a concern for their outlook both in the regular season and playoffs.
While I've discussed Reid needing to establish some offensive consistency, I think the other side of the ball is worth mentioning. Reid has largely struggled defensively, and Chris Finch has used him as the center far too often. Some of this is due to the construction of the roster.
It's worth noting that Reid and Rudy Gobert have an exceptional 98.3 defensive rating, which would be first in the league. However, Reid and Randle have an abysmal 136.8 defensive rating. Reid isn't a center, and he can't be used as one. That's a story for another day, but I don't think it's far-fetched to believe that using Reid is his ideal role defensively could help him establish more rhythm on the other end of the floor.
Ultimately, the Wolves need Reid to establish some real consistency, but his up-and-down play may simply define the season.