The Timberwolves went into Game 6 on Friday with a core of eight players it had counted on throughout the Western Conference semifinal series against San Antonio. Guys they’d likely lean on again in an attempt to extend the season.

That includes the starters plus Naz Reid, Terrence Shannon Jr. and Mike Conley. Those eight, plus injured Donte DiVincenzo, would assuredly compose the team’s top nine heading into the 2026-27 campaign if Minnesota ran back the exact same roster.

But it likely won’t, which is simply the nature of the NBA.

Minnesota could reshape its roster, sacrificing depth in the name of a higher-end piece to pair with Anthony Edwards. Conley’s age could again force him into a reduced role, at least in the regular season, assuming he re-signs with the Wolves this offseason. Injuries occur.

Outside of the nine already mentioned, Bones Hyland and Kyle Anderson have been regular contributors but largely sidelined during the San Antonio series for matchup reasons. Both are free agents who could re-sign with Minnesota.

But what about the others? The Wolves have a slew of depth pieces who have rarely appeared this season outside of garbage time or when mass injuries have forced them into action. Could they potentially slot into Minnesota’s future plans?

Here’s a look at what to expect for the guys currently sitting on the far end of the Wolves’ bench:

Jaylen Clark

Role: Clark actually appeared in 68 games this season, and has played meaningful minutes in four playoff bouts. He represents Minnesota’s perimeter defensive depth.

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 remains 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 he saw more than 10 minutes in just seven of them. Was featured on a couple of 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 also capable of attacking in one-on-one 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 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 asset.

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

2026-27 potential: He’s 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.

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 has helped Zikarsky, who turns 20 in July, become 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 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.