Minnesota Timberwolves rookie Naz Reid recorded 19 points and nine rebounds on Friday night against the Boston Celtics during his first career NBA start.
With center Karl-Anthony Towns out for at least two weeks with a fractured wrist, Reid was called upon to take his place in the starting lineup. Reid shot 7-of-15 from the field in a season-high 32 minutes and also added three steals during the 127-117 loss to the Celtics.
Reid played sparingly over the first two months of the season but eventually earned a larger role in late December. Since then, Reid is averaging 8.7 points and 3.3 rebounds in 18 games played.
Reid got off to a quick start on Friday, recording seven points and seven rebounds in the first half. The undrafted center from LSU went to work in the paint and flashed some decent post moves. Reid is still a bit raw on that end of the floor but has the potential to develop into a strong inside scorer.
The Timberwolves believe Reid can be a piece to build around in the future after rewarding him with a multi-year NBA contract over the summer. He gave the team hope with his performance on Friday night.
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