Johnny Juzang makes waves in preseason as Timberwolves seek Alexander-Walker’s replacement
The Minnesota Timberwolves faced a significant change this offseason with the departure of Nickeil Alexander-Walker. As they navigate the preseason, an unexpected contender has emerged in the form of Johnny Juzang, who is making a strong case for a spot on the Timberwolves’ roster.
Juzang’s Impressive Preseason Performance
Juzang, currently in training camp on a non-guaranteed contract, showcased his scoring prowess in Minnesota’s recent preseason game. In just 14 minutes of action, the 24-year-old guard lit up the scoreboard with 20 points. This explosive performance has not only caught the attention of fans but also raised eyebrows among Timberwolves decision-makers.
Once recognized as a third-team All-American, Juzang has yet to solidify his place in the NBA. Last season, he played for the Utah Jazz, averaging 8.9 points per game. However, his shooting ability cannot be overlooked, especially as he has connected on more than 38% of his three-point attempts over the past two seasons.
The Right Fit for Minnesota
As Juzang continues to impress, analysts are taking note of his potential fit within the Timberwolves’ system. Keith Smith from Spotrac commented on X, noting, “It’s felt like for a while now that Johnny Juzang could be a guy that eventually found the right spot and was a multi-year bench shooter for a team. Maybe that’s now with the Wolves? Sometimes shooters take a few years to figure it out, then they’re on rosters for several years.”
His skill set as an outside shooter aligns seamlessly with the Timberwolves’ offensive strategy. This preseason, Juzang has made an impressive 9-of-15 attempts from beyond the arc, establishing himself as a reliable scoring option.
Youthful Competition on the Bench
While Juzang is vying for a role, he faces competition from the Timberwolves’ younger bench scorers, including Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr., both entering their second year in the league. Despite being relatively new to the NBA scene, Juzang has already experienced the tumultuous highs and lows of professional basketball, and it appears to have fortified his performance on the court.
Future Considerations for Minnesota
As the Timberwolves look to solidify their roster, the question remains: how can they keep Juzang in the fold? With his recent performances, he may be creating enough momentum to warrant a permanent spot on the team. If he continues to shine, the Timberwolves might find that retaining him becomes not just a possibility but a necessity.
As the preseason continues, the spotlight on Johnny Juzang will only grow brighter, and the Timberwolves will be watching closely to see if he can translate this early success into a lasting role in the NBA.
