Kyle Anderson was a pivotal piece of the Memphis Grizzlies’ breakout season, where they reached the second round of the Playoffs and had the second-best record in the entire league. Anderson was one of the few veterans on the team, alongside Steven Adams, that guided the young bunch to a successful season.
Anderson’s time with the Grizzlies has come to an end as the forward is taking his talents to the Minnesota Timberwolves for the next two seasons on an $18 million contract. The man affectionately known as ‘Slo-Mo’ for his slow pace has been a Grizzly since 2018 and will leave to join the team they beat in the first round of the Playoffs.
Minnesota will be adding him to a frontcourt rotation that features a variety of players like Naz Reid, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jaden McDaniels, and others. Anderson has a much more unique skill-set as he can put pressure on the rim and create for himself. While he isn’t the best shooter, he gives the Timberwolves a nice; sources two-way presence that can mentor the younger players.
Kyle Anderson has agreed to a two-year, $18M deal to join the Timberwolves, his agents Thad Foucher and Joe Smith of @wassbasketball tell ESPN. https://t.co/fWzhFhVfkx
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022
The Grizzlies seem to continue building their young team this season, adding a lot of draft prospects onto the roster. Anderson leaving opens up more room for players like Ziaire Williams, Jake LaRavia, and others to take up a bigger role.
Danny Green joined the team for the season in the De’Anthony Melton trade with Philadelphia, adding a three-time champion to be the designated veteran and shooter on the squad if he makes it on the roster at the start of the season.
The Timberwolves have a well-built roster, and Anderson adds to their depth. But is he really a difference-making addition in an increasingly competitive Western Conference? We will have to see through the season if Anderson can help be the glue of this team and make it back to the playoffs.
