Naz Reid is so beloved by Minnesota Timberwolves fans you will get chased down on Twitter/X for suggesting his potential exit from the team. That is a true story.
The validity of the following rumors is left to the reader's discretion. However, Michael Scotto is a reliable source for insider intel with regularity.
Scotto reported, "The prevailing notion remains that Reid – who views himself as a starting-caliber player – will decline his player option and become an unrestricted free agent in line for a significant pay raise."
The Timberwolves, much like the Los Angeles Lakers, are set to embark on a pivotal offseason for the franchise. The fluidity regarding which key rotational players will stay in Minnesota should create opportunity for other teams to pounce.
Naz Reid sweepstakes should involve several potential suitors
As much as Timberwolves fans do not want hear it, plenty of teams will be interested in Reid's services this summer. The Lakers will certainly be among them.
Scotto did make it abundantly clear, however, that the Timberwolves are not simply going to let Reid go without a fight. Minnesota will aim to be near the front of the line.
"Re-signing Reid this summer is a priority for the Timberwolves," Scotto added. "There’s a consistent belief from executives around the league that Minnesota won’t be able to ultimately keep the trio of [Julius] Randle, Reid, and [Nickeil} Alexander-Walker unless they get creative."
Of that trio, Alexander-Walker would be most people's guess as to the odd man out. However, that is too easy of an answer to this question. It also overlooks a key statement Scotto made earlier.
If Reid believes himself to be a starting-caliber player, would the Timberwolves make way for him by shifting away from Rudy Gobert permanently in the starting lineup? If they cannot guarantee that, would the versatile center potentially eye a situation where a starting spot is given to him?
There is no shred of a doubt about the fact that Reid would start with the Lakers. The glaring hole at the center spot gives the former Sixth Man of the Year a surefire opportunity to showcase his talents with the top unit consistently.
The unfortunate reality of this situation would be that Rob Pelinka would be forced to work on a sign-and-trade to give Reid the kind of pay day that is being sought by the soon-to-be unrestricted free agent. That could create plenty of complications.
Another team with more cap room, granted there aren't a ton, could easily just maneuver around the Lakers. The Detroit Pistons would be worth monitoring here based on the intel coming from their direction recently.
Whatever way this is dissected, the Lakers will certainly have a chance here. However, it is far from an easy path to travel.