In a move that’s sure to spark debate among basketball fans, the Minnesota Timberwolves have made a bold decision to shake up their roster just before the season tips off. Johnny Juzang, the preseason standout, is officially getting a two-way deal, but at what cost? Let’s dive into the details—and trust me, this is where it gets interesting.
On October 18, 2025, the Timberwolves confirmed in a press release (https://www.nba.com/timberwolves/news/timberwolves-waive-four-players-3) that they’ve waived four players: Tristen Newton, Alize Johnson, Zyon Pullin, and Jules Bernard. Simultaneously, the team announced (https://t.co/pEl8CAbDqm) that Juzang’s contract would be converted from an Exhibit 10 deal to a two-way agreement, a decision fueled by his impressive preseason performance. But here’s where it gets controversial: to make room for Juzang, the Timberwolves had to part ways with Newton, the 49th pick in the 2024 draft. Is this a smart gamble on Juzang’s potential, or a risky move that undervalues Newton’s upside?
Juzang, who signed with Minnesota in September after being waived by the Utah Jazz in June, averaged a staggering 13.8 points in just 17.6 minutes per game during the preseason. His shooting percentages were off the charts—50% from the field, 48.3% from three-point range, and 83.3% from the free-throw line—while also pulling down 4.2 rebounds per contest. These numbers not only turned heads but also solidified his case for a two-way spot. For context, an Exhibit 10 contract is typically a training camp deal with no guarantees, so Juzang’s elevation is a significant vote of confidence.
But let’s talk about the flip side. Tristen Newton, a 6’5” guard who accepted his two-way qualifying offer in September, had a quieter preseason by comparison. He averaged 5.2 points, 1.6 assists, and 1.4 rebounds in 13.5 minutes per game, shooting just 38.9% from the floor. While Newton showed promise during his rookie year, his performance this preseason didn’t match Juzang’s explosiveness. Was this enough to justify cutting ties with a recent draft pick? It’s a question that’s sure to divide opinions.
Newton isn’t the only player on the chopping block. Veteran forward Alize Johnson, along with camp invitees Zyon Pullin and Jules Bernard, are also being waived. While Pullin and Bernard’s departures were expected given their non-guaranteed contracts, Johnson’s release raises eyebrows. A seasoned player with NBA experience, his departure suggests the Timberwolves are prioritizing youth and potential over proven reliability. Is this a wise long-term strategy, or are they sacrificing depth for upside?
And this is the part most people miss: the Timberwolves’ decision isn’t just about Juzang’s hot preseason. It’s a calculated bet on his ability to translate that success into regular-season consistency. If he does, it could be a masterstroke. If not, they’ve potentially wasted a roster spot—and cut ties with a young guard who still has room to grow.
So, what do you think? Is Juzang worth the gamble, or did the Timberwolves make a mistake letting Newton go? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate that’s far from over.
