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Minnesota Timberwolves: 5 Reasons Why Kevin Martin Has To Go

By Aaron Mah

October 28, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Kevin Martin (23) shoots against the defense of Los Angeles Lakers guard Jordan Clarkson (6) and center Roy Hibbert (17) during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
October 28, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Kevin Martin (23) shoots against the defense of Los Angeles Lakers guard Jordan Clarkson (6) and center Roy Hibbert (17) during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 7, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Tyus Jones (1) looks on during the first half against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 7, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Tyus Jones (1) looks on during the first half against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /

D-League Not A Viable Avenue For Development 

The NBA D-League is gradually expanding and the most forward-thinking franchises in the association have either purchased or established their own minor league affiliate.

At present, there are 19 teams competing in the said development platform, and the Timberwolves are one of the 11 remaining NBA teams without a direct stream to the NBA-sanctioned minor league.

As such, where a franchise like the Boston Celtics can send their seldom-used swingman, James Young, to Maine to play for the Red Claws — where he can be featured in an NBA-like setting, enjoy 38 minutes of playing time, launch 23 shots, and regain his confidence by accumulating 30 points — the Wolves, unfortunately, do not have such a luxury.

Their only source of development is giving their young pups unearned playing time on the profession’s biggest stage.

And as currently constituted, a promising young point guard like Tyus Jones — who wowed Timberwolves nation with his poised pick-and-roll play and deadeye pull-up jumper during preseason — is rotting on Minnesota’s bench, as his playing time is tied towards the likes of Kevin Martin.

If the Timberwolves are truly committed to their “build for the future” philosophy, having Jones sedentarily watching, as LaVine piles up minutes at backup point guard alongside K-Mart at the two, is not exactly doing what you preach.

Next: K-Mart's Value Lies With Playoff Contender

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