The Minnesota Timberwolves have signed free agent guard Johnny Juzang to a one-year contract, according to reports from Shams Charania of ESPN. Details about the contract remain limited, but it’s likely a minimum-salary deal that won’t be fully guaranteed. Juzang will have the opportunity to compete for a place on the Timberwolves’ 15-man roster or potentially sign a two-way deal during training camp.
At 24 years old, Juzang has an interesting career path, having gone undrafted out of UCLA in 2022. He subsequently joined the Utah Jazz, where he spent three seasons—initially on two-way contracts and later on a standard contract. While he signed a four-year deal with Utah last August, it only guaranteed his first season, leading to his release in June before his salary for the following season could take effect.
Throughout his time in the NBA, Juzang has faced challenges, only appearing in 38 games across his first two seasons. However, he managed to secure a more significant role in the 2024-2025 season, playing 64 games and averaging 19.8 minutes per game, with notable averages of 8.9 points and 2.9 rebounds, along with a shooting line of .429/.376/.849. Despite his offensive contributions, the Jazz struggled defensively, with Juzang’s defensive rating standing out as a concern.
With this new addition, the Timberwolves will increase their offseason roster to 16 players, having previously had 13 players on guaranteed contracts and two on two-way deals. Additionally, they still possess a two-way qualifying offer for Tristen Newton.
This move presents Juzang with a crucial opportunity to prove himself and possibly find a long-term home in the NBA, while the Timberwolves look to strengthen their roster ahead of the upcoming season. It’s a pivotal moment for both player and team as they prepare for training camp.