What Does Michael Beasley Drug Citation Mean for Minnesota Timberwolves?

Timberwolves forward Michael Beasley was cited for possession of 16.2 grams of marijuana last week. Read the full story here.

The citation carries a fine and suspension from the league (if there were no lockout).

This is unfortunate news for Beasley and may signal the end of his Timberwolves career.

Beasley received good reviews from players, management and fans alike during the 2010-11 season, but the Wolves are already under intense scrutiny from fans and cannot afford an off-court distraction.

Selecting Derrick Williams meant that the Timberwolves team have some sort of plan for the former Arizona Wildcat. Speculation abounds about how the Wolves were going to juggle the plethora of forwards on their roster.

It seemed like the team was going to change their lineup depending on who they would be playing. 

The Beasley incident makes the lineup tinkering lot easier. Derrick Williams should be in the Timberwolves starting lineup on day one of next season.

Here are a number of reasons why.

First, Beasley was a small gamble. The team only traded two second-round picks for him, so not much will be lost on the investment.

Second, much was expected of him, and he obviously still has demons to work out.

In Beasley's first press conference as a wolf he talked about how he was ready to face responsibility. He stated that, "I believe in myself and I trust in myself to take care of business like I'm supposed to."

David Kahn believed in Beasley as well.

However, for better or for worse, David Kahn has nothing bad to say about anyone. In his appearance on Bill Simmon's podcast, he only had kind words for former point guard Jonny Fynn. 

The man did not seem like he was the general manager of a team who only won 32 games the past two years.

Third, the team cannot have any distractions. The Timberwolves are losing money and no one comes to the Target Center. The team needs to be focused on winning games.

While Beasley was a positive influence in the locker room and was liked by his teammates, this issue is obviously a distraction.

Fourth, Beasley has high market value. A number of teams called about Beasley before the draft and most teams would still be interested in his talents. This could give the Wolves much needed help at the 2 and 5 positions.

Derrick Williams is ready to play for the Minnesota Timberwolves.

He was the most NBA ready player of the 2011 draft and is eager to play in the NBA. He is young, excited and could be the next big star for the team. He needs to be put in the starting lineup to contribute, develop and excite the Minnesota fan base.

Now this whole situation could change due to the lockout. No one on the Wolves staff is allowed to comment on the issue and the extra time could give Beasley a chance to focus solely on rehab.

As a human being, I hope Michael Beasley overcomes his struggles.

As a Minnesota Timberwolves fan, I hope Derrick Williams is the starting forward next season.