The Golden State Warriors are poised to make waves in the NBA free-agent and trade markets this summer, with Minnesota Timberwolves’ standout big man Naz Reid emerging as their top target. Reid, a beloved figure in Minneapolis for his pivotal role in the Timberwolves’ back-to-back Western Conference Finals runs, could be on the move as he approaches free agency with a $15 million player option for the 2025-26 season. Bovada Sportsbook has pegged the Warriors as the favorites to land the 25-year-old center, whose skill set aligns perfectly with Golden State’s offseason priorities.
Why Naz Reid Fits the Warriors’ Needs
Naz Reid, the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year two seasons ago, brings a versatile skill set that addresses several gaps in the Warriors’ roster. While not a regular starter, the 6-foot-9 power forward/center has proven his value as a reliable bench contributor, playing at least 68 games in each of the past five seasons, with four of those reaching the 70-game mark. His durability is a major asset for a Warriors team looking to bolster its depth.
Reid’s ability to stretch the floor is a standout trait, with a career 37.3% three-point shooting percentage on nearly four attempts per game. That number has trended upward over the past two seasons, and playing alongside Stephen Curry—whose gravity as the league’s premier deep-threat shooter opens up opportunities for teammates—could elevate Reid’s efficiency even further.
Beyond his shooting, Reid offers solid interior presence. In the 2024-25 season, he averaged a career-high 14.2 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 0.9 blocks per game. While not an elite rebounder, his contributions on the glass, combined with his rim protection and scoring versatility, make him a strong fit for a Warriors team seeking more size, defense, and shooting in key lineups.
A $20 Million Payday Awaits Reid
Reid’s breakout performance comes at a critical juncture as he nears the end of a three-year, $42 million contract. His $15 million player option for 2025-26 gives him the flexibility to test the free-agent market, where he’s expected to command a significant raise. Bleacher Report’s Mo Dakhil predicted on May 30 that Reid could secure a new deal starting at $20 million annually if he opts out, a price that may stretch the Timberwolves’ financial limits as they navigate the NBA’s first apron and aim for their first-ever Finals appearance.
“Having a player of this caliber coming off the bench for $13.9 million has been a bargain, though that should end after this season,” Dakhil wrote. “The interest for him will be high. Several teams need to add offensive punch off the bench. Reid is going to be one of their first calls.”
Warriors Poised to Capitalize
For Golden State, fresh off a second-round playoff appearance in the Western Conference, Reid represents a potential game-changer. His ability to space the floor, defend the rim, and contribute on both ends aligns with the Warriors’ goal of upgrading their roster around Curry and their core. While the Timberwolves will fight to retain Reid, the Warriors’ aggressive approach in the offseason positions them as a serious threat to lure him away.
As the free-agency period heats up, all eyes will be on whether Golden State can secure the $42 million star and unlock a new dimension for their championship-contending roster.