Kyle Anderson's return to the Minnesota Timberwolves has been a heartwarming chapter in their season. After spending two impactful years with the team in 2022-23 and 2023-24, Anderson, affectionately known as "Slo Mo," rejoined the squad in March following a waiver clearance. His return, alongside Ayo Dosunmu's arrival at the trade deadline, has fortified a bench that once seemed like a weak link.
At 32, Anderson has appeared in nine games since his return, making his mark primarily through his exceptional passing. However, scoring hasn't come as easily, raising the question: with 11 games left in the regular season, what role will Anderson play in the playoffs?
It was never expected that Anderson would match the 25.3 minutes per game he logged in his initial stint with Minnesota. Yet, the seasoned 12-year veteran has carved out a role for himself. Playoff rotations tend to tighten, especially under Chris Finch's leadership.
In recent postseasons, the Timberwolves have leaned on an eight-man rotation. Last year, key bench players included Donte DiVincenzo, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Naz Reid, with Terrence Shannon Jr. joining the mix in the Western Conference finals. In 2024, Reid, Alexander-Walker, and Anderson were the go-to reserves.
Assuming the starting lineup of DiVincenzo, Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Julius Randle, and Rudy Gobert remains intact, Reid and Ayo Dosunmu are expected to see playoff action. Although Bones Hyland has had ups and downs, his scoring ability, highlighted by 57 points over the last three games, gives him an edge over Anderson.
Anderson, meanwhile, has contributed 35 points across his nine appearances. His 26 assists against just eight turnovers demonstrate his playmaking prowess, but his perimeter shooting remains a concern. Without a made three-pointer since his return and only three attempts, defenses might not respect his outside shot in the playoffs.
If Finch opts for a nine-man rotation, Anderson could have the upper hand over Terrence Shannon Jr. Finch's previous trust in Anderson during his first stint with the Wolves might play in his favor. With 11 regular season games left, Anderson has a window to prove why he deserves those crucial playoff minutes.