The Minnesota Timberwolves announced they are waiving Johnny Juzang just before their upcoming game against the Dallas Mavericks. This move comes in the midst of Juzang’s fourth NBA season, during which he appeared in 21 games for the Timberwolves, averaging 2.0 points per game while shooting 42.1% from the field and 25.0% from beyond the arc.
Juzang’s release follows a strong performance in the preseason, though he ultimately struggled to secure a spot in Minnesota’s regular rotation. The team has acknowledged his hard work and dedication, leaving open the possibility that he may seize a better opportunity for playing time elsewhere.
Juzang’s NBA Journey and Performance Overview
Before joining the Timberwolves, Johnny Juzang spent the first three seasons of his career with the Utah Jazz. Over 123 games—including 23 starts—he has averaged 6.9 points and 2.2 rebounds per game, shooting 42.1% overall and 35.8% on three-pointers. At just 24 years old, Juzang remains a young player with potential, making it likely that another NBA team could add him to their roster in the near future.
His time in Minnesota was marked by limited minutes despite promising preseason form. The effort he showed impressed the organization, but the fit with the current Wolves lineup proved challenging.
Team Context and Upcoming Schedule
The Timberwolves currently hold the sixth seed in the Western Conference, sporting a 34-22 record through 56 games. Coming off a two-game winning streak and having won seven of their last ten contests, Minnesota is maintaining solid momentum. After the All-Star break, the team will host the Dallas Mavericks at the Target Center, gearing up for a crucial stretch to secure playoff positioning.
Reactions from Insiders Regarding the Roster Change
Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic reported on the move, noting:
“The Timberwolves are waiving Johnny Juzang. He shot the lights out in the preseason but was never able to crack the rotation. He impressed the Wolves with his work ethic. Now maybe he will get a chance at consistent playing time elsewhere.” — Jon Krawczynski, NBA Insider
Ryan Eichten expressed a similar viewpoint on the decision:
“Thought Juzang was a possibility for the Wolves final roster spot, but it appears they will be going in a different direction. Makess sense to let him go now and allow him to latch on with another team that might have more playing time.” — Ryan Eichten, Timberwolves Analyst
Fans and local reporters have also extended their best wishes as Juzang transitions from the Timberwolves roster.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Juzang and the Timberwolves
As Minnesota aims to make a deep playoff run for a third consecutive year following back-to-back Western Conference finals appearances, this roster adjustment highlights the team’s focus on immediate competitive needs. Waiving Juzang could provide him a fresh chance elsewhere, possibly granting him the consistent minutes that were difficult to find in Minnesota.
For the Timberwolves, this move aligns with their objective of maintaining a tightly structured roster capable of sustaining their winning streak and advancing further in postseason contention. Meanwhile, Juzang’s youth and prior experience with the Utah Jazz suggest he remains a viable and intriguing option for teams seeking depth in their guard rotation.
The Timberwolves are waiving Johnny Juzang. He shot the lights out in the preseason but was never able to crack the rotation. He impressed the Wolves with his work ethic. Now maybe he will get a chance at consistent playing time elsewhere.
— Jon Krawczynski (@JonKrawczynski) February 18, 2026
Per @JonKrawczynski, the Timberwolves are waiving Johnny Juzang. Juzang appeared in 21 games this season for the Wolves.
Thank you Johnny and goodluck with the rest of your career. pic.twitter.com/s4ckLjCpID
— SleeperTimberwolves (@SleeperTWolves) February 18, 2026
Thought Juzang was a possibility for the Wolves final roster spot, but it appears they will be going in a different direction.
Makess sense to let him go now and allow him to latch on with another team that might have more playing time https://t.co/wwokiCwFQE
— Ryan Eichten (@REichten) February 18, 2026
