If you’re looking for an action-packed, intellectually engaging basketball game from Minnesota, this outing didn’t deliver. Instead, your attention would have been better spent on the Minnesota Lynx versus the New York Liberty in game three of the WNBA finals. Hopefully, you focused only on the fourth quarter.
The game began poorly and continued uninspired, leaving Timberwolves fans baffled by how the Chicago Bulls seem to perform effectively only against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Following a defeat by the New York Knicks on Sunday, which ended their nine-game preseason winning streak dating back to 2023, the Wolves fought back in the fourth quarter. Unfortunately, they ultimately lost again, with a three-pointer from Terrance Shannon Jr. and several tip-in efforts by Josh Minott failing to succeed.
The game had moments of both promise and frustration, but it was particularly notable to see the brevity of Chris Finch’s rotation during the first three quarters. With only one preseason game remaining against the Nuggets, it’s clear that the focus needs to sharpen as the regular season approaches for Minnesota’s second-best basketball team (despite both teams facing losses).
Let’s dive in!
PS. As a New York native, I proudly support the Liberty. While I write about the Wolves, that allegiance remains unchanged. #LibsIn5
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Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images
Why Josh Minott Continues to Impress
Minott’s remarkable preseason appears to have paid off, as the versatile forward has secured a place in the newly shortened rotation. Not only was he active in the first three quarters, but he also showcased his skills by scoring off the dribble and from spot-up situations, which included a step-back three-pointer that beat the buzzer at the end of the third quarter.
It appears that Minott has effectively taken over minutes that rookie Terrance Shannon Jr. might have otherwise claimed during his inaugural season, while gradually reducing the necessity for veteran Joe Ingles. The Lawnmower has always possessed a proactive attitude, but his improved control as a supplementary wing will be crucial for a team in need of substantial depth off the bench.
The third-year player is expected to predominantly play as a small forward; however, his ability to log minutes is valuable in preventing Naz Reid, Jaden McDaniels, and Julius Randle from being the sole options at their respective positions.
The Timberwolves’ depth has received much praise since the trade that brought Karl-Anthony Towns back, which also returned the bench standout Donte DiVincenzo.
Vincenzo has retained the current Sixth Man of the Year, Naz Reid, but the team’s depth has always relied on the rookie Rob Dillingham and the forward Nickeil Alexander-Walker, who truly embodies the term “small forward.” With Minott’s arrival, this dynamic shifts significantly. It’s inspiring to witness a player seize their opportunity and excel remarkably.
A big shoutout goes to Jonathan Tjarks, who had unwavering faith in him more than anyone else.
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Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images
The Need for a Backup Center
As a devoted fan who ranks Luka Garza among the top three players, including a feature article I penned about him nearly 18 months ago, it’s essential to rely on objective observations. At times, he showcases exceptional talent, far exceeding the levels required for G-League competition. However, his lack of agility and defensive shortcomings limit his ability to be relied upon for more than brief appearances on the court.
Some fans might suggest Naz Reid as the backup center or consider Julius Randle for small-ball five, but I assert that exploring options for a more durable backup center could be beneficial. The Magic successfully utilize Jonathan Isaac, Goga Bitadze, and Mo Wagner in reserve center roles, ensuring their robust rotation alongside Paolo Banchero stays fresh.
The Timberwolves should aim to implement a similar strategy.
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Welcome Back Lonzo Ball!
Can you fathom just how long 1,006 days is? The last time Lonzo Ball participated in an NBA game, Rudy Gobert was still a member of the Jazz. Sachin Gupta held the position of general manager, and Jake Layman was part of the roster. Yes, Jake Layman!
It was truly a pleasure to witness the former number two overall pick make his long-awaited return to the court, and equally exciting to see him regain his form.
Before diving into Ball’s performance, it’s important to recognize just how improbable his return was. He underwent an experimental surgery where cartilage from a deceased donor was grafted into his knee to restore its function. This kind of procedure is far from routine and was one of three surgeries he attempted to cure a condition that had previously derailed the career of former Timberwolf and personal favorite, Brandon Roy.
Given the surplus of guards on the Bulls’ roster, it remains unclear what role Ball will assume moving forward. However, for tonight, let’s simply relish the incredible fact that he is back on the court.
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Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images
The Seatbelt is Clicking
Jaden McDaniels faces a significant opportunity to enhance his skills as a shot creator and scorer this season. Following Towns’ trade, the team has moved beyond merely utilizing available touches, stepping into a realm where production becomes crucial. For the Minnesota Timberwolves to thrive, McDaniels must evolve into more than just a close-out attacker.
His performance thus far has shown fluctuations, though recent outings have been encouraging. Just four days ago, he netted 17 points on 6-of-8 shooting, which included five free throw attempts. In tonight’s game, he contributed 12 points, hitting 4-of-6 from the field and connecting on both of his three-point attempts.
Most notably, McDaniels’ passing ability has seen remarkable improvement. This evening, he recorded five assists, featuring several well-placed lobs to Rudy Gobert. The addition of playmaking alongside scoring is thrilling to witness from a player who has hinted at his potential for years. Given how critical these glimpses have now become, this development represents a promising shift.
Game Highlights
Box Score
Up Next
The Timberwolves conclude their preseason with a home game against the Denver Nuggets on Thursday, October 17th, at 7:00 PM CT. This will be their last preseason game before they face the Los Angeles Lakers in the regular season opener on Tuesday, October 22nd.
Timberwolves Fall to Bulls: Preseason Struggles Highlight Need for Adjustments
Overview of the Timberwolves-Bulls Preseason Matchup
This past week, the Minnesota Timberwolves faced off against the Chicago Bulls in a highly anticipated preseason game. The matchup was a stark reminder of the Timberwolves’ current struggles as they fell to the Bulls, highlighting the need for critical adjustments ahead of the regular season. This defeat has raised questions among fans and analysts alike regarding the team’s performance and strategy.
Key Takeaways from the Timberwolves vs. Bulls Game
- Defensive Gaps: The Timberwolves showed significant gaps in their defensive strategies, particularly in guarding the perimeter.
- Inconsistent Offense: Despite having a talented roster, the Timberwolves struggled to maintain offensive rhythm, leading to missed opportunities.
- Player Performance: Key players like Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards had off nights, contributing to the overall team struggles.
Analyzing the Preseason Performance of the Timberwolves
The Timberwolves’ preseason record has raised eyebrows, with fans questioning the team’s readiness for the upcoming season. In their latest game against the Bulls, their inability to execute plays effectively was evident. The following sections will delve into specific aspects of their performance and highlight areas requiring immediate attention.
Defensive Struggles
One of the most glaring issues for the Timberwolves in their loss to the Bulls was their defensive play. Here’s a closer look at their defensive struggles:
- Poor Perimeter Defense: The Bulls capitalized on the Timberwolves’ defensive lapses, hitting 38% of their three-point attempts.
- Lack of Transition Defense: Fast breaks from the Bulls caught the Timberwolves off guard, leading to easy baskets.
- Foul Trouble: Several key players found themselves in foul trouble early, disrupting the defensive game plan.
Offensive Inconsistencies
Offensively, the Timberwolves failed to find their rhythm throughout the game. Key points include:
- Shooting Percentage: The Timberwolves shot only 42% from the field, a number that must improve for success.
- Turnovers: Committing 15 turnovers disrupted their flow and allowed the Bulls to score easy points.
- Unproductive Bench: The bench contributed minimally, putting more pressure on the starters to perform.
Statistical Breakdown
| Category | Timberwolves | Bulls |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 98 | 110 |
| Shooting Percentage | 42% | 47% |
| Three-pointers Made | 8 | 12 |
| Turnovers | 15 | 10 |
Spotlight on Player Performance
Individual performances play a critical role in the overall success of a team. In the Timberwolves’ loss to the Bulls, several players stood out, albeit not in the way fans had hoped.
Karl-Anthony Towns
Towns, a cornerstone for the Timberwolves, had a challenging night with only 14 points and 7 rebounds. His inability to dominate in the paint was a significant factor in the team’s offensive woes.
Anthony Edwards
Edwards showed flashes of brilliance but finished with just 16 points. His inconsistency in scoring, especially in clutch moments, is a concern as the team moves closer to the regular season.
Rookie Contributions
While the Timberwolves are counting on their rookies to step up, this game showed that they may still need time to adjust to the NBA pace. Their involvement was limited, and their impact was minimal.
Benefits of Making Adjustments
The Timberwolves must consider several benefits of making adjustments before the regular season starts:
- Improved Defensive Strategies: By focusing on defensive drills, the team can enhance their perimeter defense and transition game.
- Offensive Cohesion: Establishing a more fluid offensive strategy will help players understand their roles better and reduce turnovers.
- Increased Player Confidence: Successful adjustments will boost team morale and confidence, essential for a strong start to the season.
Practical Tips for the Timberwolves Moving Forward
To turn their preseason struggles into a successful campaign, the Timberwolves can implement the following tips:
- Film Sessions: Regular film sessions to analyze both successful and unsuccessful plays will provide players with valuable insights.
- Team Building Activities: Engaging in team-building activities can enhance chemistry and trust among players.
- Fitness Regimens: Tailoring fitness programs for individual players to address their specific needs can enhance overall performance.
Case Study: Previous Timberwolves Seasons
Historically, the Timberwolves have faced similar challenges in their preseason games. For instance, during the 2018 preseason, they struggled with defensive consistency but made significant adjustments that helped them secure a playoff spot. The key was their proactive approach in analyzing weaknesses early on and addressing them head-on.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Coaches
Coaches and analysts stress the importance of not overreacting to preseason performances. A veteran coach recently stated, “Preseason is about finding your identity. It’s crucial to recognize areas of concern without losing sight of the bigger picture.” This perspective reminds fans and players alike that while preseason performance is important, it’s just one part of a long journey.
