Hoops Habit
Fansided

What to watch for from every NBA team in the second half

By Daniel Lubofsky

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 23: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers in action against Kyrie Irving #11 during the game against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on January 23, 2020 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Matteo Marchi/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 23: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers in action against Kyrie Irving #11 during the game against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on January 23, 2020 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Matteo Marchi/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
(Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

Minnesota Timberwolves: The introduction of their new dynamic duo

D’Angelo Russell is the player the Minnesota Timberwolves have coveted for a long time now. He’s an upgrade over Andrew Wiggins, a point guard they’ve desperately needed and the friend to keep the seemingly disgruntled Karl-Anthony Towns happy.

The deadline acquisition looked great on paper. Now comes the more difficult part of capitalizing on it.

It’s far too late for Minnesota to spark a run to the postseason, but the foundation for the coming seasons can be set over the Wolves’ remaining 29 games — or however many Towns appears in after being ruled out indefinitely with a left wrist injury.

Russell is the playmaker Towns has never had during his time in the NBA. KAT’s offensive repertoire and elite outside shooting touch are two aspects DLo’s never seen from a big man up close.

The defensive end will remain an issue until it isn’t, and neither Towns nor Russell has shown the greatest leadership qualities since entering the NBA in 2015.

Their debut game alongside each other was the perfect example of individual greatness that usurped the bigger picture.

Towns and Russel combined for 45 points, 12 assists and seven 3-pointers. They also contributed 11 turnovers and were a combined minus-29 in a 137-126 loss to an undermanned Raptors squad.

Both have been named All-Stars no older than 24. Ultimately getting where they want to go, however, requires more than just talent. Neither could get there on their own, but maybe together is where these two can help steer the Wolves in the right direction.