NBA Rumors: Shabazz Muhammad's Timberwolves Qualifying Offer Reportedly Pulled

Shabazz Muhammad is now an unrestricted free agent after the Minnesota Timberwolves pulled their qualifying offer for the small forward, per Chris Haynes of ESPN.

The Timberwolves had an option to match any offer to the restricted free agent, but he is now free to sign with any team. Haynes added that this move was to the benefit of both parties with the squad in a "win-now mode."

Keith Smith of RealGM reported this move was necessary after the team agreed to a deal with Taj Gibson.

The former lottery pick appeared in 78 games this past season with an average of 19.4 minutes per game. While he showed some potential with his athleticism and size at 6'6", his playing time and his 9.9 points per game were the lowest since his rookie season in 2013-14.

With the Timberwolves adding Jimmy Butler as part of an aggressive offseason to get back into the playoffs for the first time since 2004, there was no more time to wait for Muhammad to develop. The move also clears any cap space that would be required to keep him if he doesn't find another offer.

Meanwhile, the 24-year-old now has a chance at a fresh start with a new team.

Muhammad has averaged 18.9 points per 36 minutes in his career and is an efficient offensive player, which could lead to a bright future if given the opportunity in a new location.