Which end of bench Timberwolves could contribute in next year’s rotation?

Pros: Clark is willing and able to guard some of the NBA’s top perimeter scorers, a necessary skill for any team that wishes to be a top unit on that end of the floor. His on-ball defensive acumen can allow Minnesota to get more creative with its utilization of Jaden McDaniels.

Cons: He fouls too much and his offensive game is still very much a work in progress. Clark shot 46% from 3-point range over his final 18 regular season games, but that shot must become far more consistent to earn Chris Finch’s trust as a regular rotational piece.

2026-27 potential?: Clark is a restricted free agent this offseason. Assuming he’s back next year, he’s likely to continue his current role as an end-of-the rotation player who is more useful in some matchups than others but could carve out a consistent role during Donte DiVincenzo’s expected absence over the first half of the season.

Joan Beringer

Role: Played in 40 games during his rookie campaign, though saw more than 10 minutes in just seven of them. Was featured on a couple occasions when Rudy Gobert missed time and when the Wolves rested their starting front court late in the season.

Pros: A high-energy, athletic player whose skillset is raw – he won’t turn 20 until November – but obvious. A rim protector and lob threat who’s also capable of attacking in 1 on 1 situations with an improving handle.

Cons: Doesn’t have a jumpshot to date and needs to improve situational awareness defensively to avoid fouls and not burn unnecessary energy.

2026-27 potential?: One of the sneaky underlying reasons for a frontcourt shakeup in Minnesota this offseason is to free up opportunity for Beringer, who has the potential to develop into exactly the type of center that makes life easier on both ends of the floor for star wings such as Anthony Edwards.

Julian Phillips

Role: Came over from Chicago mid-season as an extra piece in the Ayo Dosunmu trade and played at the ends of blowouts.

Pros: A lengthy athlete who figures to be a defensive positive.

Cons: A jumpshot that doesn’t appear reliable given the form, nor a handle to be able to consistently attack and score off the bounce. Exactly where Phillips fits into an NBA offense remains to be determined.

2026-27 potential: Is signed through next season on a cheap deal. So assuming he’s not thrown into a larger trade, Phillips figures to be on next year’s roster. But major offensive improvement will be required to leapfrog multiple guys ahead of him in the wing rotation and earn minutes.

Rocco Zikarsky

Role: Played in only five regular season games while on a two-way contract. Gained ample experience in the G-League.

Pros: His 7-foot-3 frame contributes to Zikarsky, who turns 20 in July, being a strong rebounder and good shot blocker. Still has the potential for a yet-to-be-developed jumper.

Cons: The lack of speed and athleticism mean Zikarsky will consistently have to be parked in the paint on defense, which presents matchup limitations.

2026-27 potential: A regular role in the rotation is out of the question, but should Beringer seize one, Zikarsky could possibly take on the Frenchman’s role from this season as a “next man up” depth front court piece.

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