Naz Reid is staying in Minnesota—and not just for the winters. The reigning NBA Sixth Man of the Year inked a 5-year, $125 million extension with the Timberwolves, turning down offers from other teams that promised him a starting role and comparable money.
That’s loyalty you don’t see every day in the NBA. But when you’re averaging 14.2 points, 6 rebounds, and nearly 38% from deep off the bench, you’re not just any role player—you’re a secret weapon. And Reid clearly believes that the Wolves’ unfinished business in the West is worth sticking around for.
The Stats Don’t Lie: Naz Reid is a Walking Bucket
Reid isn’t just putting up “good for a bench guy” numbers—he’s cooking legit starter-level production in limited minutes. Last season:
- 80 games played, only 17 starts
- Still delivered 14.2 PPG, 6 RPG, and 1.2 BPG
- 37.9% three-point accuracy made him one of the NBA’s best stretch bigs
And when he did start? He averaged 18.3 points and 9 boards. So yes, teams came knocking. But Reid chose Minnesota—and a backup role—over a fresh start and more spotlight. Now that’s rare air.
From Undrafted to Undeniable
Let’s rewind. Reid wasn’t even drafted in 2019. He signed with Minnesota as a free agent, quietly worked his way up, and now—six years in—he’s not just in the league, he’s shaping one of its most intriguing contenders.
He’s also just one of three players in the past five seasons to score 3,000+ points off the bench, alongside Jordan Clarkson and Malik Monk. He’s in elite sixth-man territory, and the Wolves know it.
Timberwolves Betting Big—and Paying for It
Per ESPN’s Bobby Marks, Reid’s deal puts the Wolves in deep luxury tax waters—about $23 million over. That could spell trouble for other rotation pieces like Nickeil Alexander-Walker, who may become a cap casualty.
But management made its choice. Instead of chasing Kevin Durant or breaking the bank for external help, Minnesota locked in their culture guy—a homegrown piece who knows the system, fits the locker room, and delivers in crunch time.
And let’s not forget: Minnesota just drafted Joan Beringer, a 19-year-old French center touted as Rudy Gobert’s long-term heir. That gives the Wolves flexibility, and makes the Reid-Beringer pairing one to watch.
188bet Odds Watch: Wolves Futures Heat Up
Following Reid’s signing, 188bet updated their odds:
- Minnesota to win 2026 NBA title: 14.00
- Reid to win Sixth Man again: 6.50
- Most Improved Player (long shot): 21.00
Bookmakers see this as a foundational move, not just a feel-good story. And with Reid locked up, the Wolves’ depth remains among the best in the West.
[🟢 View live odds on 188bet]
FAQs: People Also Ask
Reid turned down similar offers with starting roles to re-sign with Minnesota, citing loyalty, chemistry, and belief in the team’s championship potential.
For a Sixth Man of the Year who offers starter-level production and elite shooting as a big? Absolutely. He’s more than just bench depth—he’s tactical flexibility.
Not likely. Reid’s contract signals long-term trust. He’s seen as essential to the Wolves’ system, not just an asset for trade bait.
They’re now over the luxury tax threshold, which may force moves like parting with Nickeil Alexander-Walker or trimming elsewhere.
He combines rim protection with floor spacing—rare for a center. He’s plug-and-play at the 4 or 5, and thrives both as a starter or spark off the bench.
Conclusion: The NBA’s Best Sixth Man Just Made His Biggest Play
Naz Reid didn’t chase starting gigs, bright lights, or bigger cities. He bet on continuity. On chemistry. On a Timberwolves squad that’s knocking on the championship door.
And with this contract, he’s no longer just a backup. He’s a cornerstone.
🟣 Got thoughts on Reid’s deal or Minnesota’s offseason? Drop them in the comments and hit follow for full coverage of the Wolves’ title chase!
