Naz Reid Draft Status
Naz Reid was selected in the 2019 NBA Draft. The Minnesota Timberwolves chose him with the 21st overall pick in the first round. He became one of the highest drafted players from a junior college program in recent draft history 2019 NBA Draft picks.
Reid played college basketball at LSU before declaring for the draft. His draft profile highlighted his athleticism, rim protection, and ability to finish plays in transition. Teams valued his potential as a high-motor big man with upside in switch-heavy defensive schemes.
Team Selection and Contract
The Timberwolves selected Reid with the 21st pick on June 20, 2019. He signed a rookie-scale contract with Minnesota, which included a two-way guarantee structure typical for second-round and late-first picks NBA rookie contracts.
Reid split time between the Timberwolves and their NBA G League affiliate, the Iowa Wolves. His development focused on improving defensive positioning, pick-and-roll coverage, and consistent finishing around the basket during training camps and summer league sessions.
Career Timeline and Role
Early NBA and G League Development
Reid spent his first seasons moving between the Timberwolves roster and Iowa. He appeared in regular-season NBA games while refining his post game and defensive discipline under multiple coaching staffs.
Recent Role and Usage
By the 2023-24 season, Reid had carved out a niche as a defensive-minded backup big man. He contributed in limited minutes, often logging under ten minutes per game while focusing on rebounding, rim protection, and high-efficiency scoring Basketball Reference stats.
Contract Extensions and Free Agency
Reid remained under team control through standard rookie contract years. His path reflected the typical development arc for a late-first or early-second round pick, with ongoing roster competition and G League assignments shaping his NBA minutes.
Draft Class Context
The 2019 draft class included multiple big men selected ahead of Reid, which influenced his role as a depth piece. Teams in that class prioritized length, mobility, and switchable defense at the forward and center positions ESPN NBA Draft coverage.
Key Statistics and Impact
Reid's NBA averages reflect a role player focused on efficiency rather than volume scoring. His field goal percentage and rebounding numbers in limited minutes underscored his value as a low-usage, high-effort contributor on both ends of the floor.