The Minnesota Timberwolves entered the final part of the preseason with 21 players listed on their roster and an October 19 deadline to set their opening group. That gave several players a short period to secure a roster spot or a clear job off the bench.
The Timberwolves rested their starting group against the Miami Heat, giving reserve and fringe-rotation players extended minutes they will see fewer of during the regular season. While both squads are set to return to Kaseya Center for their official season opener on October 21, this preseason matchup served primarily as a proving ground for Minnesota’s depth
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Oct 10, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves point guard Bones Hyland (8) steals the ball from Miami Heat point guard Ryan Conwell (4) during the first half at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Michael Laughlin-Imagn Images
Antonio Reeves Adds Game-Winner to Roster Case
Minnesota defeated Miami 125-124 after Antonio Reeves made a floater with 2.3 seconds remaining. After the Heat moved ahead with fifteen seconds left, Reeves gathered the ball on a broken play and scored the last two of his five total points.
The moment carried added weight because Reeves signed with Minnesota on September 24 and is reportedly playing on a non-guaranteed training-camp deal. Unlike several teammates who already have guaranteed contracts in place, he entered the preseason needing to show why the team should keep him.
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One shot cannot decide a roster battle, but Reeves showed that he could stay ready after playing only 12 minutes.
Bones Hyland Makes Case for Set Bench Role
Bones Hyland led the Timberwolves with 23 points in 21 minutes. He shot six-of-nine from the field, made five-of-six three-point attempts and converted all six free throws.
His four assists, three steals and zero turnovers strengthened the performance. Hyland looked for his shot without wasting possessions, which is important for a guard expected to provide quick scoring.
He returned to Minnesota on a one-year minimum contract. His place on the active roster is more secure than that of the camp players, but his preseason work can help decide whether he receives a regular bench role or plays only when other guards are unavailable.
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Zyon Pullin Shows Scoring Value in Two-Way Role
Zyon Pullin scored 22 points in 28 minutes while shooting seven-of-nine from the field. He also made all eight of his free throws, showing that he could reach the paint and draw contact.
His one assist and four turnovers weakened his case as the main passer. The game provided stronger support for using him as a scorer who can handle the ball for shorter periods.
Pullin is already on a two-way contract rather than fighting for a standard roster spot. His goal is to earn NBA call-ups and prove he can help when Minnesota needs another guard.
Joan Beringer and Terrence Shannon Jr. Push for More Minutes
Joan Beringer recorded 10 points, seven rebounds, and four blocks. Minnesota selected him with the No. 17 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and his rookie contract gives him time to grow into a larger role.
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His path to the floor depends on defense, rebounding, and work near the basket. He made five-of-six shots without needing the offense built around him, which fits the role of a backup center.
Terrence Shannon Jr. added 19 points, six rebounds and four assists in 22 minutes. The Timberwolves outscored Miami by 17 points while he was on the court.
Shannon is under contract, with Minnesota holding a future team option. His preseason goal is not survival but a larger place in the wing rotation.
Minnesota Timberwolves Still Need Better Closing Play
Minnesota led by as many as 14 points before Miami scored 40 in the fourth quarter. The Heat also collected 12 offensive rebounds and produced 24 second-chance points.
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The late slide showed the difference between strong individual performances and strong team play. Minnesota’s reserves scored enough to win, but they had trouble ending defensive possessions and protecting the advantage.
Those issues give head coach Chris Finch another part of the bench race to consider. Scoring can earn attention, but reserve units must also defend together when the game changes late.
The Last Word
The game carried different stakes for each Minnesota player. Some were trying to stay on the roster, while others were seeking NBA call-ups or regular minutes. That difference gives the performances more meaning than a simple scoring list. Finch must decide which players can fill small roles beside the starters and which ones need the ball too often to help with only limited opportunities to shine.
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Featured Image: Michael Laughlin-Imagn Images
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