During a stretch without All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns, Naz Reid stepped up admirably for the Minnesota Timberwolves, transitioning seamlessly from reserve to starter. This switch didn’t hinder his performance; in fact, Reid played a pivotal role in propelling the Timberwolves to one of their best seasons in franchise history.
His stellar contributions didn’t go unnoticed, as Reid clinched the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year award in a closely contested vote against Sacramento’s Malik Monk. This achievement marked a significant milestone for Reid, making him the third undrafted player to claim this prestigious title for the league’s top reserve.
Throughout the season, Reid showcased remarkable improvement, achieving career highs in points and rebounds while featuring in 81 games. Despite often coming off the bench, Reid’s impact was undeniable, providing crucial minutes and making decisive plays when it mattered most.
Standing tall at 6-foot-9, Reid played a pivotal role in the Timberwolves’ success, helping them secure a commendable 56-26 record and clinch the third seed in the competitive Western Conference. Notably, during Towns’ absence due to injury, Reid stepped up, showcasing his versatility and scoring prowess, averaging an impressive 17.1 points per game during that period.
The Sixth Man of the Year voting was a tight affair, with Reid narrowly edging out Monk to claim the title. His impressive performance off the bench earned him the recognition of 45 first-place votes from a panel of 99 reporters and broadcasters, solidifying his status as one of the league’s top reserves.
Reid’s journey to NBA success wasn’t conventional; going undrafted out of LSU in 2019, he initially joined the Timberwolves on a two-way contract. However, through hard work and dedication, Reid earned himself a multiyear contract extension and emerged as a fan favorite, with his contributions earning him a special place in the hearts of Timberwolves supporters.
Reflecting on his journey, Reid expressed gratitude to the fans who have supported him from the outset, emphasizing the significance of their unwavering encouragement throughout his career transformation.
As the latest recipient of the Sixth Man of the Year award, Reid joins the ranks of esteemed players like John Starks and Darrell Armstrong, cementing his place in NBA history and inspiring other undrafted players with his remarkable journey to success.
Looking ahead, the NBA’s awards season promises further excitement, with the Clutch Player and Coach of the Year accolades set to be announced soon. Amidst the anticipation, Reid’s triumph stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work in the face of adversity.
