Jan 24, 2026; Dallas, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Drew Timme (17) runs back up the court against the Dallas Mavericks during the game at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Jan 24, 2026; Dallas, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Drew Timme (17) runs back up the court against the Dallas Mavericks during the game at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
As teams finalize their 15-man rosters ahead of their opening night matchup, the Phoenix Suns appear to have made some interesting moves ahead of the Oct. 19 deadline. While the Suns have displayed a clear intention to strengthen their frontcourt depth, the addition of Drew Timme after the forward cleared waivers certainly stands out.
Drew Timme notably spent the 2025-26 season with the Los Angeles Lakers on a two-way deal, appearing in 27 games for the franchise. Although there was an expectation that he would secure a roster spot ahead of the team’s playoff run earlier in the year, the Purple and Gold prioritized guard depth by signing Nick Smith Jr. instead.
After Drew Timme’s time with the Lakers came to an end, the forward joined the Minnesota Timberwolves‘ training camp roster ahead of the new campaign. Now, after being waived by the Wolves, HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto reported he had joined the Phoenix Suns. Scotto wrote:
“The Phoenix Suns have claimed Drew Timme off waivers, league sources told HoopsHype . The former Gonzaga star has averaged 5.6 points and 2.7 rebounds in two NBA seasons with the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Lakers. Timme was in training camp with the Minnesota Timberwolves.”
Drew Timme’s tenure with the Minnesota Timberwolves was brief, to say the least. Having signed an Exhibit 10 deal on Sept. 25, the forward found himself being waived less than three weeks later. Regardless, with the Suns claiming him off waivers, the 26-year-old retains his place in the NBA.
But can he be a factor for the Suns this season?
How Does Drew Timme’s Addition Help The Suns?
Drew Timme has the potential to be an interesting addition to the Suns’ frontcourt. While he doesn’t necessarily position himself as a primary option off the bench, his availability as an end-of-bench big man could provide Phoenix with the insurance they need entering the new campaign.
Timme’s offensive skill set is built on a fairly traditional approach for a power forward. With strong fundamentals in the low post and pick-and-roll situations, the 26-year-old can create scoring opportunities using savvy footwork and intellect. This trait was highlighted during his time with the Lakers, but he also showcased his offensive repertoire during his brief time with the Timberwolves.
In four preseason appearances for Minnesota, Timme averaged 6.0 points, 1.0 rebounds, and 1.5 assists while shooting 64.3% from the field in just 10.8 minutes per game. Although his rebounding figures leave much to be desired from a big man, Timme’s comfort in offensive sets as a scorer, as well as a playmaker, could earn him some playing time in Phoenix.
As mentioned earlier, Drew Timme is likely to serve as insurance for the Phoenix Suns in the event of an injury to players like Khaman Maluach, Mark Williams, or Oso Ighodaro. However, it is worth noting that he isn’t the only option for the Suns.
Aside from Timme, the Suns also have Duop Reath on their roster, who was recently converted to a two-way contract ahead of the roster deadline. Hence, with two capable big men in the rotation, both of whom present value in different ways, Phoenix will enjoy some flexibility in the frontcourt.
Interestingly enough, Drew Timme’s addition also marks the third instance in which the Suns have acquired a player with former ties to the Lakers. With Jordan Goodwin and Luke Kennard on the Suns’ roster entering the 2026-27 season, Phoenix’s scouting stands out.
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