Naz Reid just reminded everyone what he is capable of

Naz Reid has gotten off to a slow start this season. Through five games, the Minnesota Timberwolves big man is averaging 10 points, 6.0 rebounds and 1.6 assists on 40.4/25/58.3 shooting splits. However, it seemed like only a matter of time before Reid got back on track.

Luckily, that’s exactly what happened on Saturday against the Charlotte Hornets. Reid scored 18 points (7-13 shooting from the field and 3-5 from 3-point range), three rebounds and an assist en route to a 122-105 Wolves victory. He did most of the damage in the second quarter, scoring eight points. With this win, the Wolves moved to 3-3 on the season.

Without a doubt, this game should be a reminder to everyone of how good Reid is and that when he is at his best, this Timberwolves team reaches another level.

Saturday’s match shows that Reid is finding his feet

There are some big men with the same skill set as Reid. The LSU product can create for himself, shoot from beyond the arc and make plays for others. These unique skills have made Reid one of the league’s most influential bench players in recent years.

On Saturday, these impressive skills were on full display. Reid fired off the catch and created his own shots, executed pick-and-rolls and scored at the rim. He even threw a 360 dunk. Reid’s blend of all-around scoring and size is truly remarkable.

As the Wolves go down this stretch without Anthony Edwards, Reid producing at a high level will be critical. Even if Edwards returns, it will be crucial that Reid provides consistent production off the bench as he has done in recent years.

Sure, Reid gives the Wolves some much-needed spark off the bench, but he also unlocks an extra element of versatility. Reid’s rare skill set allows him to fit seamlessly alongside Rudy Gobert and Julius Randle in the frontcourt.

Reid led a 36-point performance in front of the Wolves bench. Minnesota’s bench scores will be a major factor in their championship hopes, and it starts with Reid. For the season, Minnesota is just 27th in bench points per game, something that will need to improve. Fortunately, cornerback Reid will likely be linked to the Wolves, moving him up for the bench ppg.

While Reid has been up and down this season, it’s worth noting that he had some strong moments even before Saturday’s game. Notably, Reid scored 16 points and 10 rebounds against the Indiana Pacers and 18 points and seven rebounds. An uneven start to the season is understandable. However, it appears that Reid is getting back on track, something that will benefit the Wolves immensely.