Minnesota Timberwolves coach Chris Finch on Tuesday revealed that a key point of emphasis for rookie Leonard Miller in the G League is learning how to become a professional on and off the court.
Miller has spent the majority of the season with the Iowa Wolves to develop and refine his skills as a player. The Timberwolves believe he can become a regular contributor in the NBA, though he will need time to reach that level.
The team, Finch said on Tuesday, has seen progress with Miller.
The production, points and games are only good if you can replicate them. The replication comes from finding a routine, a process, leaning into who you are as a player and going out and doing it every single night. Those are things I think are starting to take root in him, which are the most important things because they provide a foundation for him to get better.
Miller is averaging 18.9 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.1 assists on 36.7% shooting from 3-point range in 15 games with the Wolves. He registered two 30-point games, including a career-high 35 points and 10 rebounds in his last time out on Jan. 3.
The 33rd pick has had some strong moments with the Wolves, but he hasn’t consistently been a leading scorer and rebounder. However, the team believes he is buying into his role in the G League, which should help his on-court production.
“He has a unique skill set, but at the same time, you have to define his game,” Finch said. “Those are things you can do down in the G League. We tell him all the time that players don’t necessarily want to go down there, but you only have success when you embrace being there. I think he is starting to do that and is starting to show a difference.”
[lawrence-auto-related count=3 tag=650261316]