On Wednesday, the Minnesota Timberwolves waived two-way player Johnny Juzang, signaling continued roster adjustments following the trade deadline. This decision came as Juzang’s eligibility to stay on the roster was nearing expiration, despite limited playing time this season. The Timberwolves now face uncertainty in filling their open roster spot as they shift strategy going forward.
Potential Additions from the Buyout Market
With Juzang waived, the Timberwolves are expected to explore options on the buyout market to strengthen their squad. Although no immediate significant acquisition is anticipated, the team has several candidates to consider. Confirmed buyout players this season include Lonzo Ball, Eric Gordon, Chris Boucher, Georges Niang, Dario Saric, and Mason Plumlee—veterans who contribute depth more than high-impact stats at this stage.
Following the recent trade acquiring Ayo Dosunmu, Minnesota’s top-eight rotation has improved, potentially reducing the need for signing high-profile players from free agency or buyouts. D’Angelo Russell is also widely expected to be bought out soon, adding another option for the Wolves.
Evaluating Possible Buyout Candidates and Fit
Other possible buyout targets include Khris Middleton, Kyle Anderson, and DeMar DeRozan, with DeRozan’s potential availability increasing due to Domantas Sabonis’ season-ending injury. However, the Timberwolves are unlikely to pursue Middleton or DeRozan, as both players typically require more playing time than Minnesota’s current rotation can offer with Dosunmu now on the roster.
Russell could provide experienced depth, but a reunion seems doubtful given prior strained relations with the Wolves. Kyle Anderson emerges as a plausible candidate to rejoin the team, although his buyout status remains uncertain. Anderson’s previous time in Memphis adds complexity to this possibility.
Other Roster Strategies Under Consideration
As an alternative to veteran buyout signings, the Timberwolves might target a two-way player from another team to add youthful potential. Such a move could offer more upside aligned with Minnesota’s championship aspirations, though the front office may hesitate to introduce less experienced players midseason.
Lower-profile Wolves prospects like Rocco Zikarsky and Enrique Freeman, who have minimal NBA experience this season, are unlikely to receive a promotion to the main roster at this time.
Uncertainty Remains Over Final Roster Moves
The Timberwolves have multiple routes to complete their roster, but no definitive leading option has emerged. With March 1 approaching—the date when luxury tax penalties decrease—any new moves may be timed to mitigate financial impact. Minnesota’s approach in the coming weeks will be critical as they balance immediate roster needs with long-term goals.
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
