Naz Reid is due to opt out of his player's option for the 2025-26 season. He is ready to stay with the team, but he will want a good contract, possibly worth around $30 million a year.
The 2024 Sixth Man of the Year will likely get that deal with the Timberwolves, so he is focused on improving his game further in the offseason.
Minnesota Timberwolves center Naz Reid (11) drives to the basket against Oklahoma City Thunder guard Alex Caruso (9) during the second quarter in game five of the western conference finals for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center.
Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
The NBA has undergone a massive shift in recent years because depth is the most valuable asset to have for any team. Gone are the days of the Big Three era because having eight or more good players is the way to win a championship.
Minnesota got close, as they were one of the last four teams left in the 2025 Playoffs. They did not come close to beating the Oklahoma City Thunder, but they had a deep squad, with Reid playing an important role for the team.
Reid Knows What He Must Do During His Time Off
Since Reid knows he is vital to how the Timberwolves want to play in the long-term future, he knows what he needs to improve on. This is a good approach to his future because he has developed a part of his game with each passing year.
The Timberwolves are a much better team when they have Reid active and motivated. With a second consecutive Western Conference Finals exit, Reid knows he must improve his game to help the team get over the hump.
"Probably just be a little more consistent in some categories. I think off the court, probably learn how to be a leader for the younger guys. I kinda did that this season, but I just lead by example as well," Reid said when the Timberwolves got back to Minnesota after the Conference Finals.
In terms of his on-court play, consistency should be one of the aspects of his game that must improve. The Timberwolves rely heavily on his production off the bench, so if he can be more consistent, the team's depth is in good hands.
Reid Will Be An Additional Leader For The Timberwolves
Most people know Anthony Edwards is the de facto leader of the Timberwolves. He is an inclusive teammate, so he encourages more of his teammates to step up as leaders when needed.
Since Reid is the longest-tenured player on the Timberwolves, he has earned his place as one of the leaders. Knowing that he is willing to improve on that aspect of his game is a good sign for coach Chris Finch and his team.
Reid will be a star off the bench, but he will also step up if he is needed to be part of the starting lineup. He should also know that he will be on big money, so playing as a leader is a good way to approach the Timberwolves' 2025-26 season.