Minnesota Timberwolves Release Nate Santos After Brief Stint

What's Happening?

The Minnesota Timberwolves have released forward Nate Santos shortly after signing him to an Exhibit 10 training camp deal. Santos, who joined the team earlier this week, had previously played for the Orlando Magic during the Summer League. Despite going undrafted in June, he participated in four games, averaging 1.3 points and 1.5 rebounds over 10.4 minutes per game. Santos built his reputation at the collegiate level, starting at Pittsburgh before transferring to Dayton, where he had a standout senior year with averages of 14.3 points and 5.6 rebounds, shooting 41.8% from three-point range. Although his time with the Timberwolves' main roster was brief, Santos remains eligible for a bonus if he spends at least 60 days with the team's G League affiliate, the Iowa Wolves.

Why It's Important?

The release of Nate Santos by the Timberwolves highlights the competitive nature of securing a spot in the NBA, especially for undrafted players. Santos' potential to earn a bonus through the G League affiliate offers a pathway for continued development and connection to the NBA. This situation underscores the importance of the G League as a developmental platform for players who are on the cusp of making it to the main roster. For the Timberwolves, retaining Santos in their system could be beneficial if he continues to develop his skills, particularly his three-point shooting and versatility as a forward.

What's Next?

Nate Santos will likely focus on his development with the Iowa Wolves, aiming to improve his game and increase his chances of being called up to the NBA. The Timberwolves may monitor his progress closely, considering his potential as a versatile forward. If Santos performs well in the G League, he could be a valuable asset for the Timberwolves in the future, especially given his shooting ability. The team's decision to release him from the main roster but keep him within the organization suggests they see potential in his development.