Minnesota Timberwolves: 5 potential free agency targets in 2018
By Luke Askew
5. Luc Mbah a Moute
Luc Mbah a Moute is an unrestricted free agent that seems to be flying a little under the radar this offseason. He had a nice year with the Houston Rockets, helping them earn the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and an NBA-best 65-17 record.
During the 2017-18 season, Mbah a Moute averaged 7.5 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game. The 31-year-old struggled in the playoffs, however, after returning from a shoulder injury.
It was clear that Mbah a Moute’s game took a serious hit after the injury. He couldn’t shoot the ball from deep very well (after shooting a respectable 36.4 percent from 3 during the season) and he struggled to find his way on offense. It almost makes you wonder if the Rockets rushed him back from injury to try and get him back in the lineup. After all, he played a huge role in their regular season success.
His struggles during the playoffs make me think that he might be undervalued this offseason. People are quick to forget the versatility he brings. He’s an incredible defender who can switch 1-5. Plus, he can space the floor. These are two roles that the Timberwolves desperately need coming off the bench.
I would be hesitant to pay Mbah a Moute any sort of big bucks coming off the injury he had, but a short-term deal (maybe even for the league minimum) seems like it’s definitely worth the gamble.