Timberwolves: Gobert’s encouraging remarks fuel Minnesota’s hype train

SAN ANTONIO, TX - MARCH 14: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the Minnesota Timberwolves receives congratulates from Jaylen Nowell #4 and Anthony Edwards #1 after scoring sixty points against the San Antonio Spurs at AT&T Center on March 14, 2022 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images)
SAN ANTONIO, TX - MARCH 14: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the Minnesota Timberwolves receives congratulates from Jaylen Nowell #4 and Anthony Edwards #1 after scoring sixty points against the San Antonio Spurs at AT&T Center on March 14, 2022 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

Trades in the off-season reshuffled rosters, causing teams to find new chemistry. Will Rudy Gobert’s impact lead the Minnesota Timberwolves further than expected? Positive morale in the workplace is essential for success.

A productive off-season for teams is a part of the association and includes team bonding, often experienced through practice. Chemistry kept Chris Finch’s squad together last season and their growth showed on the hardwood – resulting in a better finish than the year before.

Minnesota’s improvements on the court are reflected in the conference standings. In 2020, the Wolves’ record ranked 13th best in the Western Conference. Finch’s team collected 23 additional wins the following season—enough for playoff contention. Improvements on the court should carry into the upcoming season, making the Timberwolves a team to watch.

Timberwolves can rely on roster improvements this upcoming season

Changes to the roster will not stop Minnesota from scoring points and efficient performances from Karl Anthony-Towns throughout the years have kept the team in conversation. In 2015, the Timberwolves exchanged their first-round pick for the big man’s services. An impressive rookie year earned Anthony-Towns more minutes in his sophomore season and he eventually became the face of the franchise.

Surrounding No. 32 with talent puts the Timberwolves on the right track. Acquiring D’Angelo Russell gave the offense range. In 2020, Russell finished the season shooting 38% from the arc—an improvement from the previous season. Last season, playmaking was the focus for Minnesota’s guard. His 460 assists kept the offense flowing—making him a centerpiece for a developing offense.

In 2020, the Timberwolves found themselves with another top-five draft pick. Finch’s staff exchanged the first pick of the night for an explosive forward from Georgia. Anthony Edwards’ presence was felt immediately. His 19.3 points per game kept defenses on their toes—providing more opportunities for teammates to score. An increase in minutes in 2021 gave Edwards more time on the court. The 19.3 average increased to 20.3–helping the Wolves make a run at the playoffs.

Timberwolves need Rudy Gobert to incorporate teammates on offense

The trade with the Jazz gave Finch another weapon in his arsenal. The acquisition of Robert Gobert strengthened the team’s roster, and the seven-foot center will help anchor Minnesota’s front court. In 2021, Gobert finished the season ranked 1st in rebounds and his 15.6 points per game became a reliable option in clutch situations.

A desire to create plays will drive Minnesota’s newest addition to share the basketball often. Reports of Gobert passing from the top of the key and in the short roll excite fans who anticipate his debut.

An offense with two dominant big men will keep fans in Minnesota entertained. Karl Anthony Town’s three-point shot will stretch the floor, creating paths for more scoring. Teamwork during the off-season will help the team prepare for the season, and chemistry on the court will be a factor in a grueling 82-game schedule.