When you talk about impact players coming off the bench, Naz Reid has to be near the top of the list. The reigning Sixth Man of the Year earned that title with consistent production and energy, and the Timberwolves rewarded him accordingly-inking him to a five-year, $125 million deal this past offseason. That’s not the kind of contract you hand out to a role player unless you believe he’s a cornerstone of your second unit-or more.
But as Minnesota eyes potential upgrades at point guard ahead of the trade deadline, Reid’s name has started to surface in trade conversations. And while he’s a fan favorite in the Twin Cities, not everyone around the league seems to view him as a high-value trade asset. On a recent episode of The Hoop Collective podcast, ESPN’s Tim Bontemps didn’t mince words when asked about Reid’s market value: “I just don’t think they can turn Naz Reid into anything right now personally,” he said.
That’s a strong take, especially considering Reid’s production. At 26 years old, he’s still squarely in his prime.
And after a bit of a slow start to the season, the 6-foot-9 big has settled in nicely. Through 20 games, he’s averaging 13.1 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2 assists, and a block per game-solid numbers for a reserve who often provides a scoring jolt when the starters sit.
The Timberwolves’ bench, outside of Reid, has struggled to generate offense. They currently rank 28th in the league in bench scoring, which puts even more weight on Reid’s shoulders as the go-to option when the second unit takes the floor. If Minnesota were to move him, that scoring void would only grow-unless a player like Donte DiVincenzo, currently starting, shifts into a bench role following a potential trade for a lead guard.
Now, let’s talk about the contract. Reid’s deal runs through his age-30 season, and with the salary cap continuing to rise, a $25 million annual average for a productive, versatile big man isn’t exactly a burden.
Is it the kind of contract that headlines a blockbuster trade? Probably not.
But it’s far from unmovable, and for the right team-especially one looking for frontcourt scoring off the bench or a stretch-five option-he could be a valuable piece.
It’s also worth noting that Reid’s value to Minnesota isn’t just about box scores. He’s a glue guy, a locker room presence, and someone the fanbase has rallied around. If the Timberwolves do decide to move him, it’ll need to be for a deal that clearly improves the roster-especially given how well DiVincenzo has held things down in the starting lineup.
Minnesota is coming off back-to-back wins over the Celtics and Spurs, improving to 12-8 on the season. That’s the kind of momentum that can quiet early-season concerns.
If they keep stacking wins, the urgency to shake things up may fade. But if the front office does decide to make a move, Naz Reid’s name will keep coming up-not because he’s expendable, but because he’s one of the few valuable chips they could realistically part with.
Bottom line: Reid is producing, his contract is manageable, and he’s a key part of what’s working in Minnesota. If he’s dealt, it’ll have to be for something that clearly moves the needle.