Practice Report | Oct. 27, 2013
After Saturday’s roster announcements, Sunday’s practice for Robbie Hummel and A.J. Price felt a little different than others.
Throughout training camp and preseason, Hummel, Price, Othyus Jeffers, Lorenzo Brown and Chris Johnson were all fighting for the two final roster spots. Yesterday, the team announced that those spots were won by Price and Hummel.
Price expects to be the third point guard and the Wolves hope they won’t need to play him because of injuries, but coach Rick Adelman noted that he won’t hesitate to play the former UConn star if necessary. Price brings tremendous leadership to the team and it was evident form the get-go that he was a great locker room guy. He was the leader of the team that was fighting for the final two spots and while it was a competition, Price urged that the group play together and put the team before themselves.
That’s what Price has done and is the main reason why he’s on the team.
“Just being a leader with my experience,” Price said on what he can bring to the team. “Just be professional. I really try to work on those things. Those are things that you can control.”
Hummel will rotate between the 3 and 4 and could potentially earn a spot in the rotation.
“With Robbie, there’s certainly a possibility that he’ll play,” Adelman said.
Hummel’s biggest strength is his shooting ability. For a team that was historically bad from the 3-point line last season, Minnesota fans will welcome Hummel with open arms. Hummel’s road to the league has had its ups and downs, but it looks for now, he’s finally in the NBA.
While both players should be proud of making the cut, Adelman, Price and Hummel noted after practice that this is a business. A roster spot isn’t always guaranteed. Both players are incredibly hard workers, and a drop off in production isn’t expected.
“It’s great to accomplish a goal, but there’s more things I want to do than to just make the team,” Hummel said.
With his history of overcoming the odds, don’t bet against him.
Quick Hits