Timberwolves Ink Deal with Promising Duke Prospect Keels

The Minnesota Timberwolves have made a strategic move by signing former Duke basketball standout Trevor Keels to a contract, according to league sources. Keels, a 21-year-old guard, previously had a brief stint with the New York Knicks and spent last season with the Iowa Wolves, the Timberwolves' G League affiliate, where he showcased his potential.

Unlocking the Potential of a Rising Star

Keels' Journey from Duke to the Pros

After a successful freshman campaign with the Duke Blue Devils, where he played a crucial role in their Final Four run, Trevor Keels entered the 2022 NBA Draft and was selected 42nd overall by the New York Knicks. However, his time with the Knicks was short-lived, as he made only three appearances and tallied just three points and two rebounds in eight minutes on the court before being waived.Undeterred, Keels found a new opportunity with the Iowa Wolves, the Timberwolves' G League affiliate, where he showcased his skills and potential. Last season, he averaged an impressive 13.5 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, while shooting a respectable 36.4% from beyond the arc. This performance has now earned him a chance to prove himself at the NBA level with the Timberwolves.

Timberwolves' Gamble on Keels' Potential

The Timberwolves' decision to sign Keels is a calculated risk, as the terms of the contract are not yet clear. However, it is believed to be an Exhibit 10 deal, which means Keels will have the opportunity to suit up for the Timberwolves in preseason action. This type of contract typically indicates that the team is interested in further evaluating the player and potentially adding them to their official roster for the 2024-25 season.The Timberwolves' interest in Keels is not surprising, given his pedigree as a former Duke standout and his recent performance in the G League. The team is likely hoping that Keels can continue to develop and potentially earn a spot on their roster, adding depth and versatility to their backcourt.

Keels' Potential Impact on the Timberwolves

If Keels can impress the Timberwolves' coaching staff and front office during the preseason, he could potentially earn a spot on the team's official roster for the upcoming season. This would provide him with a valuable opportunity to showcase his skills at the NBA level and potentially carve out a role within the Timberwolves' rotation.Given the Timberwolves' current roster composition, Keels could potentially fill a need for the team as a versatile guard who can contribute on both ends of the floor. His ability to score, distribute, and defend could make him an attractive option for the Timberwolves as they look to build a well-rounded and competitive team.Ultimately, the success of this signing will depend on Keels' ability to continue his development and prove his worth during the preseason. The Timberwolves are taking a calculated risk, but if Keels can capitalize on this opportunity, it could be a mutually beneficial partnership that pays dividends for both the player and the team.