The demotion of Shabazz Muhammad from the Minnesota Timberwolves’ rotation has been a curious one. Despite the absence of Nemanja Bjelica for the last eight games, Muhammad has played just three total minutes in the last five games.

Muhammad, who returned to Minnesota with the intention of working his way toward a big contract next summer, has admitted that it’s been a tough time recently given his lack of playing time.

“It’s definitely frustrating,” Muhammad said to Jerry Zgoda of the Star Tribune. “I definitely played well in preseason. I think I’m going to get that back. I’ve been staying after [practice], getting up extra shots, getting my conditioning in, making sure my body is in tiptop shape so I can be ready. I feel really good. The best thing is to stay ready and stay in shape right now. I’ll wait for my number to be called. That’s the best thing I can do at this point.”

Timberwolves head coach Tim Thibodeau’s lack of trust in reserves like Muhammad has led to significantly heavier minutes for his starters, particularly Jimmy Butler, who has played 40 or more minutes in four straight games.

It remains to be seen whether Thibs will have a change of heart and work Muhammad back into the rotation. If he doesn’t, though, he risks completely wearing his stars out due to the heavy workload he’s placing on them so early in the season.