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Minnesota Timberwolves GM believes the team have found a ‘hidden gem’, excited about his potential

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Aaditya Krishnamurthy | Last updated Jul 14, 2025 8:37 AM ET

The Minnesota Timberwolves GM is thrilled with the way one recent acquisition has turned out for them.

The Minnesota Timberwolves are now at a point where they must start adding to their roster. After two consecutive Western Conference Finals losses, it’s clear they’re not at the level to compete for a championship just yet.

For as great as Anthony Edwards is, we’ve seen plenty of players try to go at it alone and fail. He needs help, and the right pieces around him.

Losing Nickeil Alexander-Walker to the Hawks is a big blow to the Timberwolves. However, the rise of Rob Dillingham will be an encouraging sign for them.

The Timberwolves also used the 2025 NBA Draft to add to their depth. Timberwolves fans loved Joan Berringer’s performance at the NBA Summer League.

But it’s another Timberwolves rookie who has earned plaudits from their GM, as he looks set to be a key piece for them going forward.

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Minnesota Timberwolves GM is a big fan of Rocco Zikarsky

Minnesota Timberwolves GM Matt Lloyd did an interview in Las Vegas as he attended an NBA Summer League game.

During the interview, Lloyd spoke about Rocco Zikarsky. The #45 overall pick has shown that he could be a legitimate steal for them.

“He was kind of like a hidden gem to a degree. He’s a legit 7’2”. He can shoot. He’s got a great feel for the game.

“We’ve seen in the first two games him be a great stationary passer.

“The challenge Rocco will be getting acclimated to the speed of the game here and getting his conditioning and strength up, but we’re pretty bullish on him.

“Having traded back from 31 to 45, we were happy when he was there.

“He’ll have some time in Iowa this season. We’re really looking forward to investing in him and seeing what that could yield.”

Rocco Zikarsky has professional experience that will help him adapt to NBA

Rocco Zikarsky entered the NBA this year, but he has been playing professional basketball for two years. A native of Australia, Zikarsky represented the Brisbane Bullets in the NBL.

After two seasons there, he decided to make the jump to the NBA. While Zikarsky hasn’t yet represented the Minnesota Timberwolves in the NBA Summer League, don’t expect him to be a regular rotation player either.

As things stand, Zikarsky is expected to pull double duty in the NBA and the G-League, representing the Iowa Wolves as well.

If he does well in the G-League, that could open the door for him to get some more opportunities with the Timberwolves.

At 7’2, Zikarsky provides the Timberwolves some much-needed size outside of Rudy Gobert. Expect him to get some chances with the main team as the season goes on.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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