Minnesota Timberwolves: 3 takeaways from recent success

The Minnesota Timberwolves have improved following a 4-9 start. Here’s a look at the reasons behind the team’s recent success.

The Minnesota Timberwolves and the Chicago Bulls engaged in a draft night trade in 2017 that sent Jimmy Butler and the 16th overall pick to the Twin Cities in exchange for Zach LaVine, Kris Dunn and the No. 7 pick that turned into Lauri Markkanen. Thanks to the addition of Butler, the Timberwolves nabbed the final playoff berth in the Western Conference last year, ending a 13-year postseason drought.

Although Minnesota was eliminated in the first round by the Houston Rockets, the team and the fans felt there was a lot to be excited about moving forward. The Timberwolves were hoping to build upon the success they enjoyed last season, but things took an interesting turn, to say the least.

You see, the guy they traded for just a year ago demanded a trade, which created a circus atmosphere around the ball club before the season even began. Eventually, the Wolves honored Butler’s request, sending him, Justin Patton and a future second round pick to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for Robert Covington and Dario Saric.

Despite the drama that surrounded them early on, the Timberwolves have turned things around in a big way. In fact, on the heels of a 4-9 start, Minnesota has gone on an impressive run, winning nine of its last 12 games to climb to one game above .500.  Here’s a look at a few of the factors that have contributed to the team’s recent success.