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TJ Shannon Has Thrived Because He’s On the Ball More

Coming into the season, Minnesota Timberwolves’ 26-year-old third-year wing Terrence Shannon Jr. needed to live up to expectations. However, the Wolves haven’t always put him into favorable situations.

Published: Friday, 6 November 2026 at 4:36 PM
TJ Shannon Has Thrived Because He’s On the Ball More
Key Things to Know
  • Jonah Maves argues Terrence Shannon Jr. has thrived due to an increased on-ball role this season.
  • Shannon's on-ball possession rate rose to 28.3 percent, compared to 14.8 percent the prior season.
  • Head coach Chris Finch moved Shannon out of the corners to operate as an offensive initiator.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Minnesota Timberwolves wing Terrence Shannon Jr. has seen his role expand in the 2026-27 season by operating more frequently with the ball in his hands. Jonah Maves highlights that Shannon's on-ball rate has surged to 28.3 percent, up from 14.8 percent and 8.1 percent in his first two NBA seasons. Head coach Chris Finch has transitioned Shannon from a static corner player into a possession initiator to better utilize his driving abilities.

The writer argues this structural shift eases the pressure on fellow ball-handlers and creates unpredictable scoring opportunities. Although an Anthony Edwards knee injury and Shannon's own recent two-game absence have disrupted the rotation, Maves believes Shannon's newly expanded on-ball role provides a permanent blueprint for his development and team success.

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