Burlington, Ontario’s, Brady Heslip is one step closer to the NBA. The Oakville born Canadian is on the brink of earning a roster spot, but early on in the season many teams are lacking roster spots and would need to make a move before signing Heslip. Enter Minnesota Timebrwolves.

Heslip played for the T’Wolves during the Summer League and pre-season, but due to high number of wings on the Wolves roster Heslip was the odd man out. In his five Summer League games with the Wolves, Heslip started in two averaging a total of 6.2 points per game while knocking down 70% of his three’s. The shooting guard out of Baylor lacked minutes when coming off the bench, but impressed as a starter. He averaged 15.5 points as a starter in Summer League. Pre-season was a different story as Heslip in four games only averaged a bit over two minutes of action, and then was waived.

After being let go by the Wolves, Heslip later signed with the Reno Bighorns of the NBA Development League. Heslip came off the bench in his D-League debut dropping a more than impressive 40 points on 13 of 24 shooting. He hit a total of 11 three’s during that game and earned himself a start for the Bighorns second game. Heslip showed some signs of coming back to earth in the second game only dropping 38 points on 11-23 shooting. Nine of the 11 shots coming from behind the arc giving him a total of 20 three’s over the course of two games.

The 6-2 guard has shown his shooting has been NBA worthy, but teams have been hesitant in signing the guard because he’s too small to play the two guard in the NBA, and lacks the speed to guard NBA level point guards. Though, Heslip has shown off his range the Canadian also plays with great heart and confidence that many young players lack in the early stages of their career. He has the ability to get his defender in the air and knock down a mid-range jumper. He also has a strong floater over big men.

Heslip’s first two games in the D-League have put him back on the NBA radar. Canadian fans have taken notice (even though he’s already known), NBA teams are starting to see what he can really do, and American basketball fans who knew Heslip from his Baylor days are being reminded of his scoring abilities. So, when does Heslip’s true NBA chance come?

After spending time with the Wolves in Summer League and pre-season, Heslip’s best chance comes again in Minnesota. The Wolves have been reported to be shopping wing-man Corey Brewer, and playoff teams Cleveland Cavaliers, Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Clippers have all shown interest. It’s reported the Wolves would only take draft picks back if Brewer was to be traded – opening up a roster spot. Even if Heslip does sign with the Wolves, he may see a lack of minutes, but is then given the opportunity to earn a bigger role through practicing with an NBA team.

For now, Heslip continues to knock on the NBA door. He’s showing in the D-League he can score, and scoring is always a need in the NBA. Heslip’s next game with the Bighorns comes on November 21st versus Bakersfield, where many will have an eye on him to see if he can continue his hot shooting. Heslip is every Canadian’s favourite non-NBA player, and everyone is cheering him on as he chases his NBA dream.