Without Wolves’ “Twin Towers”, it’s Naz Reid’s turn to shine

We had left Naz Reid in full fog, at the beginning of December, on its use between post 4 and 5. Now that Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert are both in the infirmary, Wolves and him ask fewer questions. For three games, the usual substitute has been in the five majors as the starting pivot.

And the least we can say is that he takes full advantage of the opportunity to show himself. On the floor of the Thunder three days ago, he signed his best performance of the season with 28 points (11/18 on shots including 3/5 from afar) and 9 rebounds. ” It’s both happy and unhappy, but there’s always something going on with some guys on the team, and that gives me a good opportunity (to show what) I’m capable “, Displayed the player.

Two days later against the Bulls, the latter had started on new very large offensive bases – 10 points at 100% on shots in 12 minutes – before having to leave his teammates prematurely due to a painful shoulder. At the level of the trapezius muscle, said the team.

So that his presence, this night against the Mavs, was very uncertain. ” I received many treatments the day before. This morning it was 50/50 (note: on his chances of playing) because it was still a little painful. I was able to rest, I feel much better. It’s still a little painful but I played with it », describes the New Jersey native who does not look 23 years old.

“Whatever you ask him, he continues to answer present”

This shoulder discomfort did not prevent him from giving his direct opponent, Christian Wood, a little defensive nightmare. Author of a big dunk in transition by cutting the Texan defense to start, he regularly overtook his vis-à-vis to finish in the circle.

” I am a very proud person. In the team, they tell me every day how much of a player I am made for these great moments. I am very proud to answer present for them », formulates Wolves leading scorertied with Anthony Edwards, with 27 points (11/19 on shots including 2/6 from 3-pointers) and 13 rebounds.

“ He was very good, he was in it, active, with good hands. Whatever is asked of him, he continues to respond. He’s done a good job since I’ve been here. On many occasions its role has been limited, as has been discussed. But he makes the most of every minute played. Like tonight, when he wasn’t there, we had a hard time so… remarks Chris Finch.

His interior, which runs at 14 points (58% including 44% from afar) and 8 rebounds in December, ends by evoking the beneficial attitude of Anthony Edwards for him and the whole group: “ I haven’t seen him this happy in a while. This is where it starts. There is a domino effect, it trickles down to the next player and now everyone is excited for the next one. With someone like him, you really feel that energy. […] Playing for each other is the most important. Everyone wants to see their neighbor happy. It’s exactly as it’s supposed to be. »