Losing Naz Reid would be a disaster for Timberwolves

Naz Reid is the reigning Sixth Man of the Year. This season, he's stepped into a slightly larger role with the Minnesota Timberwolves following the decision to trade Karl-Anthony Towns to the New York Knicks.

According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, Reid, 25, is expected to explore free agency at the end of the season.

"Reid, who is the league’s reigning Sixth Man of the Year for a few more months, possesses a $15 million player option for 2025-26 that many of those same strategists expect he’ll decline in search of a richer arrangement in the summer," Fischer reported.

Minnesota must do whatever it can to re-sign Reid if he chooses to opt out of his player option. There aren't many bigs that can operate as a rim-runner, perimeter scoring threat and rebounding menace. His versatility and high-level play make him the ideal big for a five-out or four-out offense. He can slot next to a hulking big or anchor the middle of the floor himself. 

The Timberwolves have struggled this season. Losing Towns forced head coach Chris Finch to alter his approach on both sides of the floor, and those adjustments have yet to pay dividends. If Reid were to leave, Minnesota would also lack the floor-spacing five that ensures Anthony Edwards has the room he needs to operate and take control of games.

Reid likely knows his value to Minnesota and could be looking to increase his current earnings while staying with the franchise. However, other teams in the NBA will undoubtedly be willing to meet his salary demands and free him from the Timberwolves' clutches. 

The Timberwolves were tending in the right direction before trading Towns. They have enough talent to get back on track in the near future. However, losing Reid could have catastrophic consequences for the franchise's chances of competing at the highest level. 

Their front office has a few months to work out the finances and make the money work. Keeping Reid isn't just a smart business; it's essential for what the Timberwolves are trying to achieve.