3 Minnesota Timberwolves who definitely won’t be back next season

Timberwolves who won’t be back next season No. 1: SG Austin Rivers

Last offseason, the Timberwolves signed Rivers to a one-year, $2.9 million contract. In his lone year with the franchise, he was solid. In 52 games, he averaged 4.9 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists, while shooting 43.5 percent from the field and 35.0 percent from deep.

The Timberwolves will look to reshuffle their second unit this offseason. In 2022-23, their bench ranked 23rd in the NBA in total plus/minus (-368); six of the seven teams behind them failed to make the playoffs. In the postseason, their starters (Mike Conley, Anthony Edwards, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Towns, Gobert) were their top-five leaders in net rating (minimum two games played).

It is evident that the Timberwolves need to add more difference-makers off the bench. They have plenty of big men (Towns, Gobert, Reid, Kyle Anderson). Meanwhile, they lack depth behind the 35-year-old Conley. Therefore, point guard will likely be a priority this summer.

Rivers is still a solid depth option. He is a capable shooter with plenty of playoff experience. Contending teams should show interest in him on the open market. Nevertheless, the Timberwolves need a more explosive third guard.