The Timberwolves you have until the end of the month to exercise your team option Joan BehringerContract 2027/28. Whether that happens or not, this is a key season for a big man expected to step up Rudy Gober, Sarah Todd of the Minneapolis Star Tribune writes.
“The platform is there, and we need it for the game,” coach Chris Finch said. “It could be 14 minutes a night, it could be 24 minutes a night, and it’s going to be determined by how he plays. And we’ve got to be good enough around him in those moments where he’s not having one of his best nights so that he can be confident and he gives us energy and effort, at least as a base level.”
Behringer morally prepared for the challenge. Behringer had nine points and nine rebounds in 15 minutes against Orlando on Friday.
“I’m not afraid” he said. “I love to learn, so I’m not afraid to make mistakes. It’s how you grow. So no, I’m not afraid at all.”
Here’s more from the Northwest Division:
- Timberwolves forward Jayden McDaniels signed a one-year, $40 million extension this week that will keep him under contract through the 2029/30 season. McDaniels expressed his love for the city to John Krawczynski of The Athletic (Link to Twitter). “I just love where I’m at. I love Minnesota, I love the fans, the atmosphere, just everything.” he said. “I’ve just been here for seven years and it’s just a matter of adding another year.”
- The Trail Blazers showed great depth, especially in the backcourt, and Damian Lillard and Ja Morant according to this approach Jason Quick of The Athletic. “That’s the good thing about having this group,” said Morant, whose contract runs through next season. “Obviously, you know the minutes have to be distributed. But if we’re all selfless, ego-free and, you know, just want a better way … there shouldn’t be any problem.” Lillard and Morant bonded quickly and didn’t mind being pulled for top defenders at a crunch time. “I think that’s what makes our team special, and what will continue to make it special, is that we have guys who can identify those moments and understand.” Lillard said.
- In an extensive interview with Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated, Jazz coach Will Hardy indicates that the franchise has moved on from the recovery stage. “I’m excited because I think we have a very hungry team and I have very high expectations for them every day.” he said. “It’s hard for me to look away and say, ‘I’m looking forward to this at the end of the year,’ but I expect and demand really high standards from our players every day. Hopefully those standards every day and the work every day will eventually lead to good results.”