The Minnesota Timberwolves look to rebound after a disappointing 19-45 season. Last season they acquired D’Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley, and Juancho Hermangomez to get more talent. Russell fits better with Karl-Anthony Towns than Andrew Wiggins did. But even with all the moves, Minnesota has a long way to go.
Key Additions: Anthony Edwards, ED Davis, Ricky Rubio, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson
Edwards was the Timberwolves’ No. 1 draft pick and is strong and athletic. He will need to improve his shooting but should fit nicely with Russell and Towns. Davis Struggled with the Utah Jazz, but he is a solid big off the bench. Rubio is a decent pass-first point, who improved his three-point shot a little last season, shooting 36% from beyond the arc. He must continue to strengthen his shooing to be successful. Hollis-Jefferson is a good defender and can finish at the rim.
Key Losses: Nobody really James Johnson was traded, but only played 14 games last season. Minnesota traded Omari Spellman, who played on their G-League team and Jacob Evans only played two games.
Starting Five: D’Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley, Jake Layman, Josh Okogie, Karl Anthony-Towns
This is the starting five Minnesota has used all preseason. Russell can score the basketball and dish it as well. Beasley fresh off a new four-year $60 million contract and played well after being traded to the Timberwolves. He averaged 20.7 points per game in 14 games. Layman can shoot a little bit and is athletic. Okogie is an inconsistent shooter but is an outstanding defender. We all know what Anthony-Towns bring to the table; with Minnesota’s playmakers, he should be primed for a big season. The Center will need to bring it on the defensive end.
2021 Outlook
The Timberwolves have the offensive talent to be a high-scoring team, but they have to bring it on the defensive end. The western conference is deep, and you will need to defend to be successful. With Edwards and Rubio coming off the bench, it gives them more depth. Minnesota should be better than last year, but they will still miss the playoffs.
