After a disastrous playoffs, especially in the second-round, it was clear that the Minnesota Timberwolves needed to trade Julius Randle. One of the many reasons why Randle had to be traded was to open up a starting spot for Naz Reid, who (unlike Randle) is an ideal fit with the rest of Minnesota's roster.
Of course, the Wolves traded Randle to the Brooklyn Nets in a salary-dump move, which paves the way for Reid to start. This is certainly a vote of confidence in Reid, as was signing him to a five-year, $125 million contract last summer.
Reid's complementary skill set has long benefited the Wolves, but in a scaled-up role, they'll fully realize how impactful his complementary abilities are. In turn, Reid's ability to complement the rest of the Wolves' roster can help the team reach another level.
Naz Reid is an ideal fit with the rest of the Wolves' roster
The two main reasons that Reid is a better fit for the Wolves' roster than Randle ever was are 3-point shooting and quick decision-making.
In a vacuum, Randle is a more talented player than Reid. However, Randle's heavy isolation diet makes him a tricky fit with Anthony Edwards and the rest of the team. Furthermore, he is methodical as both a shot creator and playmaker.
Between the Wolves having other players (including Reid) ready for a bigger role, their new fast-paced identity and the need for spacing around Edwards, Randle's style of play wasn't the right fit for the team.
On the flip side, Reid thrives in a play-finishing role, particularly as a floor spacer. While Reid does have solid shot creation, ball-handling and playmaking chops, these skills are utilized if need be, allowing other players on the court to thrive. Likewise, Reid isn't a true playmaking hub by any means, but he makes the right play more often than not and he always thrives at making quick decisions as a passer.
Having someone who can space the floor, make quick decisions and offer some on-ball juice is exactly what you want from a complementary player. It's been clear that Reid is an ideal fit with the rest of the Wolves team, but it will only continue to get clearer as he assumes a bigger role.
Now, it's understandable to have some concerns about the Wolves' lack of a classic second option at this juncture. Regardless, fit is essential and it's certainly possible that by upgrading their fit and later adding another ball-handler alongside Ant, the Timberwolves can level up next season and Reid's complementary abilities will be a big part of this transformation.
