yahoo
Following a 21-minute stint off the bench for the Minnesota Timberwolves, forward Trey Lyles earned commendations from teammates and coaches for his impactful play. Lyles, who returned to the NBA after a season in Madrid, has quickly become a valuable asset for the Timberwolves.
Among those singing his praises is point guard LaMelo Ball, a fellow new addition to the team. Ball, who exploded for 34 points in 33 minutes against Milwaukee on Monday, expressed his admiration for Lyles. "I love Trey," Ball said. "He knows how to play basketball. I tell him every day, 'You one of one, you know how to play basketball.' Whenever you got that on the floor, it really makes it easier."
In the win over the Bucks, Lyles, now an 11-year NBA veteran, contributed 12 points, including two 3-pointers, and finished with a plus-4 rating. Guard Ayo Dosunmu highlighted Lyles' veteran presence: "He's just a veteran in this league. Him being out there, he understands what's needed at what time. His offensive rebounding, combined with his ability to stretch the floor, has been great for us. He gave us a big spark, hit a big three, big turnaround jump shot. I think that's something that you need."
The consistent theme surrounding the 30-year-old forward is his high basketball IQ and his knack for filling gaps on the floor through off-ball movement and efficient scoring. Lyles has posted a 60.7 true shooting percentage in his first 134 minutes played, the best on the team according to Databallr.
"It's been great," Lyles said after Monday's win. "I had a big role last year. Obviously, wasn't here, but this is a different level. It's awesome to be part of a team that is striving to win the championship and being a big part of that. And kind of being one of the older guys and just talking to guys and stuff like that. So it's been cool. I've been having a good time with my teammates. It's been fun."
With superstar Anthony Edwards sidelined due to injury, Lyles will continue to see significant rotational minutes, serving as both a backup forward and a small-ball center. Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch has shown willingness to deploy that lineup when the team needs a spark. "That group, you know, gave us a chance to switch everything, and just kind of keep a body in front of a body – that was key there," Finch said after last week's game against the Warriors. "What I like about Trey is just a great, smart player. You know, makes things happen out there, is a really good help defender. Offensively, not only stretches the floor, but he's a good, like, next-action facilitator – really understands how to play basketball."
Key Analysis
Lyles' ability to seamlessly adapt to various roles and his cerebral approach to the game have made him an indispensable component of the Timberwolves' rotation. His efficiency and versatility provide a significant boost as the team navigates Edwards' absence.
Originally reported by yahoo.