MN Timberwolves Rookie Blows Up Expectations in Summer League Debut

The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 98-91 in their first NBA 2K26 Summer League game in Las Vegas on Thursday.

The Timberwolves fielded a veteran and talented Summer League roster, featuring their top young prospects. This included 2024 first-round picks Rob Dillingham and TJ Shannon Jr., 2025 first-round pick Joan Beringer, and 2023 picks Leonard Miller and Jaylen Clark.

Rookie center Joan Beringer, the 18-year-old 2025 No. 17 overall pick with only four years of basketball experience, emerged as the standout storyline. He immediately impressed with multiple blocked shots early in the game, showcasing elite defensive potential and drawing significant attention. Beringer dominated throughout, finishing the game with 11 points (5/6 FG), 8 rebounds (3 offensive), 2 steals, and 6 blocks in 22 minutes, looking like an NBA-ready player and potentially a draft steal.

While Beringer, Shannon Jr., and Jaylen Clark performed well, second-year guard Rob Dillingham had a tougher outing, recording 15 points and 6 assists but also committing 7 turnovers.

Overall, the Timberwolves were pleased with their young players' performance, particularly Beringer's impact. Their next Summer League game is against the Denver Nuggets on Saturday at 9 PM on NBA TV and ESPN3.