Will Barton, an 11-year NBA veteran wing, is joining the Minnesota Timberwolves' coaching staff this season in a player development role. The move comes after Barton spent last season as an assistant coach with the Timberwolves' G League affiliate, the Iowa Wolves, and also served on the team's Summer League coaching staff.
What does Barton bring to the Timberwolves' player development staff?
Barton brings over a decade of NBA experience, having played 679 regular-season games for the Portland Trail Blazers, Denver Nuggets, Washington Wizards and Toronto Raptors. During his career, he averaged 11.2 points, 4.1 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game. His final NBA season was in 2022-23 before he played professionally overseas in China, Puerto Rico and Spain.
Why is this hire significant for Minnesota's young players?
The Timberwolves are looking to develop their roster around rising stars like Anthony Edwards and newly acquired LaMelo Ball. Barton's promotion reunites him with Timberwolves president of basketball operations Tim Connelly, who was a key executive with the Denver Nuggets during Barton's tenure there. This connection could help Barton integrate quickly into Minnesota's player development system.
What comes next for Barton and the Timberwolves?
Now in his coaching role, Barton will focus on helping Minnesota's young players and developmental prospects grow their game. The Timberwolves recently lost their last two games and hold a 1W-0D-4L record in their last five outings, including a 109-139 loss to the San Antonio Spurs on May 16, 2026. Fans can track the team's progress on our schedule page as they look to turn the corner and contend for an NBA Championship.