The Minnesota Timberwolves' Head Coach Chris Finch Unveils Naz Reid's Secret to Success
The Minnesota Timberwolves have been on a roll, making consecutive Western Conference Finals appearances and setting high standards for the season. While Anthony Edwards has been a standout scorer, the real key to their success may lie in the supporting cast, particularly the emergence of Naz Reid.
At the start of the 2025-26 season, Reid's performance was underwhelming, averaging 10.8 points and 5.0 rebounds with a 42.1% field goal percentage and 32.1% three-point shooting. Given his five-year, $125 million contract extension, expectations were high.
However, since the turn of the year, Reid has transformed. He's now averaging 14.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.1 blocks, and 1.1 steals per game, shooting a remarkable 50.4% from the field and 42.2% from beyond the arc. His performance against the Dallas Mavericks on Friday night, where he scored 21 points, was a testament to his newfound prowess.
Head Coach Chris Finch attributed Reid's turnaround to a simple yet powerful factor: increased activity and energy on the court. Finch noted that Reid started making more plays, getting out and running, and rebounding at a high level. This shift in his game has had a positive impact on his offensive performance.
Finch also praised Reid's ability to create his own shots, highlighting his role as a quick decision-maker and a key player in the team's fast-paced style of play. Despite playing alongside the formidable Rudy Gobert and with other players like Julius Randle and Jaden McDaniels contributing to the rebound, the Timberwolves aren't expecting Reid to consistently grab double-digit rebounds.
With Ayo Dosunmu joining him on the bench, Reid's offensive game has taken a significant leap. The Timberwolves now boast one of the best two-man benches in the NBA, a dynamic duo that can make a real difference in the final stretch of the season.
As the season progresses, every win becomes crucial for their playoff seeding. If Reid can maintain his current form, it will significantly enhance their chances of making another deep postseason run. The Timberwolves' success this season is a testament to the power of a cohesive team effort, with each player contributing their unique strengths.
