As the Timberwolves' 2025-26 season approaches, one player who was a virtual non-factor for much of last season suddenly looks poised to shock the NBA with a breakout campaign: Terrence Shannon Jr . The former Illinois All-American endured a difficult rookie year. For 22 games in the heart of the season, he was essentially a healthy scratch, stuck behind a crowded backcourt rotation. His opportunities were limited, his minutes inconsistent, and his role undefined. By the numbers, Shannon averaged just 4.3 points in 10.6 minutes per game across 32 appearances, hardly the production one would expect from a player with his college pedigree.
Yet, what a difference a few months can make. By the end of Minnesota’s season, Shannon began to find his footing. He earned valuable playoff minutes i