Naz Reid, the longest-tenured player on the Minnesota Timberwolves since joining as an undrafted free agent in 2019, has expressed a clear desire to remain with the team past the 2025 season. Despite holding a player option that could allow him to explore free agency, Reid is committed to staying with the only NBA organization he knows, demonstrating loyalty that resonates with fans and the city.
Naz Reid’s Journey from Undrafted Player to Key Contributor
Reid’s rise with the Timberwolves has been remarkable. Joining the team without being drafted, he steadily earned his place in the rotation, ultimately winning the Sixth Man of the Year award in 2024. Today, Reid continues to excel in a crucial support role that few players can match in impact. His performance hints at a potential contract exceeding $30 million annually if Minnesota can secure his services long-term.
Strong Bonds with Fans and the Community Define Reid’s Minnesota Experience
Having spent six seasons with Minnesota, Reid has developed a deep affection for the team, the city, and its supporters. He has become one of the state’s most beloved sports figures, with only a few athletes, such as Anthony Edwards and NFL star Justin Jefferson of the Vikings, receiving as much local acclaim. This connection makes it difficult for Reid to consider leaving, even though lucrative offers from other teams may tempt him.
According to Reid,
“I’ve had a great career so far, I’ve grown every year. Not this year as much as I’d like to, but I’d still grown in certain aspects, kinda grown as a leader,”
he said. He added,
“I’ve been here six years, and I don’t plan on doing anything differently. Hopefully, it’s the same way, same feeling on the other side.”
Challenges Ahead: Contract Negotiations Could Impact Team Composition
The Timberwolves face a difficult offseason in 2025 as both Naz Reid and Julius Randle are expected to opt out of their contracts, opening the door for free agency discussions. While both players favor staying with Minnesota, their decisions will influence the team‘s salary cap and roster moves, particularly around Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s future.
Alexander-Walker has revitalized his career as a sharpshooting guard with strong defensive skills, but Minnesota may struggle to retain him alongside Reid and Randle under the existing cap constraints. This could lead to the departure of one among the three players. Given Reid and Randle’s importance as frontcourt leaders, Alexander-Walker might be the one to make way, with emerging talent Terrence Shannon Jr. poised to fill his role.
Optimism Surrounding the Timberwolves’ Core Players
Anthony Edwards, another cornerstone of the franchise, has publicly supported the team’s core trio—himself, Reid, and Jaden McDaniels—highlighting a promising future. Their collective potential fuels excitement for Minnesota’s competitive prospects in the coming seasons, further emphasizing the importance of retaining Reid and building around his contributions.