The Minnesota Timberwolves are entering the 2026-27 season with a reshaped bench, a unit that will be tested. Head coach Chris Finch's reserves have seen significant turnover, making their projected impact a key storyline.
Ayo Dosunmu is the most significant piece. Acquired before last season's trade deadline and re-signed this summer, he averaged 14.8 points, 3.6 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game across 69 contests with Chicago and Minnesota. His role shifted dramatically in the Twin Cities, where he handled more point guard duties. Dosunmu's scoring punch and positional flexibility make him the anchor of the second unit, especially with Donte DiVincenzo's playoff Achilles injury pushing him toward a starting role to begin the year.
The recent addition of Jonathan Kuminga further defines the bench. While his arrival likely confirms Dosunmu will come off the pine, it also adds a dynamic, athletic forward to the rotation. Kuminga's ability to defend multiple positions and finish at the rim provides a different look. His development will be watched closely as he integrates into Finch's system.
Depth has steadily eroded over the last 15 months. The exit of Nickeil Alexander-Walker last offseason created the first hole. Naz Reid was traded this summer, and Donte DiVincenzo's promotion to the starting lineup last fall thinned the ranks. Mike Conley's move to the bench, while experienced, came with a decreasing skill set. This leaves the unit thinner than Finch has been used to, placing more pressure on the remaining players to perform consistently.
The Wolves' starting five is among the NBA's best, so the bench doesn't need to be spectacular. But it must be reliable. However, in losses to Charlotte and Detroit earlier in April, the lack of a spark from the reserves was noticeable. Sustaining momentum during starter rest periods will be essential for a deep playoff push.
Yet, maintaining that form over a long season requires contributions from everyone. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming challenges on our schedule page. The bench's ability to hold leads or chip into deficits will directly influence the win column. If Dosunmu can replicate his Sixth Man of the Year candidate form and Kuminga finds a consistent role, the Wolves' second unit could evolve from a question mark into a genuine strength.
