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0 Share Newsweek is a Trust Project member See more of our trusted coverage when you search. Prefer Newsweek on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search. The Minnesota Timberwolves already know what they have in Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball.
Those two will get plenty of looks this season, but the player who could actually swing the season might be Ayo Dosunmu.
It may be a stretch, but Dosunmu is the type of player who can change a game without needing everything built around him. That could make him the Timberwolves' biggest x-factor heading into 2026.
With Edwards and Ball expected to handle a lot of the backcourt spotlight, Dosunmu gives Minnesota another guard who can create offense, defend and step into a bigger role when the team needs him.
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He’s already shown he can handle those moments. During the playoffs, Dosunmu had a whopping 43 points off the bench against Denver, showing the scoring ability that made Minnesota believe he could become a major part of its future. It was a reminder that he can be more than just filler.
Last season, Dosunmu averaged 14.8 points, 3.4 rebounds and 3.6 assists. Those numbers might not jump off the page, but his ability to impact the game in different ways is what makes him valuable.
The Timberwolves clearly believe in him, too. Minnesota gave Dosunmu a five-year, $112 million contract, making it clear the organization sees him as part of its long-term plans.
Now the challenge is continuing to prove he belongs in that role. Playing alongside Edwards and Ball should give Dosunmu plenty of chances. Edwards will command lots of defensive attention, while Ball's passing ability can create shots for the players around him. Dosunmu has to be ready to make the most of those moments.
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He doesn’t need to become Minnesota’s top scorer. But, the Timberwolves need him to hit big shots, defend tough matchups, and provide another steady option when games get tight.
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