NBA Power Rankings Week 7: The revenge of the Los Angeles Lakers

Last Week: Beat Cleveland Cavaliers 109-104, Lost to Cleveland Cavaliers 100-98, Lost to San Antonio Spurs 111-108, Beat Oklahoma City Thunder 106-103, Lost to Oklahoma City Thunder 120-118

This Week: 2/8 at Dallas Mavericks, 2/10 vs. LA Clippers, 2/12 at Charlotte Hornets

In the rare week where the Minnesota Timberwolves won two games, the young guys started to take center stage. Yes, D’Angelo Russell willed the team to victory in the closing minutes against the Oklahoma City Thunder and Malik Beasley remains a certified bucket. but digging deeper builds some excitement for the future.

Naz Reid dropped 29 points on the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Thunder were almost entirely without size in the paint but Reid has acquitted himself well in the absence of Karl-Anthony Towns. His game is still unrefined but there is potential there for a rambunctious all-energy big man.

The true treasure for Minnesota has been Anthony Edwards. After struggling with his efficiency for a few weeks, the number one overall pick has come alive with increased responsibility. Over the last 10 games, he is averaging 14.5 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game on shooting splits of .364/.375/.880 and is getting better as that stretch progresses.

Some of his early-season woes are starting to melt away and he is ready to carry more of the burden for this team. At least someone seems ready.