Kyle Anderson, Timberwolves Agree to 2-Year, $18M Contract in 2022 NBA Free Agency

Kyle Anderson agreed to a two-year, $18 million contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves, according to his agents.

The Memphis Grizzles went from a play-in position the year prior to the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference to a playoff spot in the next two years.

Anderson had to make some sacrifice to help the group. When Jaren Jackson Jr. was out for most of the season, the 28-year-old started 69 games. Jackson took a back seat in the front court.

Anderson played in 21 minutes per game. He shot 44.6% from the field and 33.0% from beyond the line.

The defensive player from the first round remained effective. He held opponents to a worse percentage of shooting inside six feet. When matched up against him, opposing players hit a low percentage of their threes.

Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report wondered if Memphis would go above and beyond to make sure the 6'9" player came back.

Anderson has lost his starting job this season. "Memphis could use his roster slot to take a shot at Miles Bridges or T.J. Warren." Both would increase the title equity.

Smaller-market teams have a lower margin for error when trying to chase a title. Their window for contention was almost completely shut down when their four-year max contract was a bust.

The general manager has to be aware of the team's finances even though Anderson wasn't going to command a lot of money. Both Ja Morant and Brandon Clarke will be restricted free agents in the same year.

If push comes to shove, Memphis needs to be prepared to hold firm at a certain price point.

Anderson has been a solid point forward since he entered the NBA. He could be an All-Star if he were more athletic.

Anderson's role is likely to stay the same as a member of Minnesota's rotation. He can be a small ball option at the 5.