16 Players that will likely change teams by the NBA trade deadline

3. Naz Reid, Minnesota Timberwolves

Minnesota Timberwolves center Naz Reid likely ranks as one of the better backup centers in the NBA. He proved as much earlier this season when he was tasked with replacing all-star Karl-Anthony Towns in the starting lineup. In seven starts, he averaged 15.4 points and 6.4 rebounds on 59% true shooting, suggesting that he could be a productive starter elsewhere in the NBA. With the Timberwolves cash-strapped thanks to the Rudy Gobert and Karl Towns deals plus the upcoming Anthony Edwards extension, they aren’t expected to retain Reid in free agency.

That opens the door for another team to make an offer for him ahead of the trade deadline and have his Bird Rights, making it easier for an over-the-cap team to re-sign him. Several teams are desperate for a backup center, including the Brooklyn Nets, Miami Heat, and Los Angeles Clippers.

All three teams are currently over the salary cap and project to be so next season too. Considering Reid’s cheap $1.9 million contract, it makes trading for him much easier, assuming they have the assets. Then again, a rebuilding team in need of a young center upgrade could join the fray and look to acquire him. Whether it’s a contender or a rebuilding team, the Wolves should have plenty of teams interested in Reid and may ultimately move him.