The Timberwolves still have championship-level power that few teams can match

Despite making back-to-back conference finals, the Minnesota Timberwolves always seem to be forgotten when it comes to true title contenders. I understand, this squad isn’t perfect and there have been some worrying signs throughout the season. Still, the Wolves have an impressive 25-13 record (fourth in the West) and check some crucial boxes in the title race.

A clear strength of the Wolves is their versatility and balance in scoring. Yes, their bench production (outside of Naz Reid) was minimal. Either way, Wolves’ top six is ​​packed with goal scorers and talent, making it a tough matchup. According to Cleaning the Glass, Minnesota ranks sixth in offensive rating.

Of course, this is led by Anthony Edwards, but Julius Randle is an elite second option and creator. In addition, Jaden McDaniels is enjoying a career season and Rudy Gobert is still playing at a high level. Donte DiVincenzo and Naz Reid are two fantastic shooters and spark plugs.

Thursday’s win over the Cleveland Cavaliers is the perfect example of how dangerous this Wolves team is. Four players (Edwards, Randle, McDaniels and DiVincenzo) all scored more than 20 points. If the Timberwolves get a balanced score like this, they’ll be a legitimate matchup nightmare.

The Timberwolves’ balanced scoring is a clear advantage

Edwards and Randle provide the star-level shot creation needed for a championship-level team. Either way, the Wolves’ supporting cast ensures you can’t “run the house” on Edwards or Randle. Gobert is typically considered the weak point of the Timberwolves’ offense. I understand he’s not elite when it comes to offense; However, Gobert is shooting a career-high (and league leading) 72.7 percent from the field while averaging 11.3 ppg. Moreover, Gobert is still playing at the Defensive Player of the Year level.

McDaniels’ breakout season undoubtedly changes the Wolves’ upside. He is averaging 14.9 points, on 51.6/42.4/83.9 shooting splits, and gives the Timberwolves reliable tertiary creation, elite finishing and spot-up shooting. Speaking of spot-up shooting, DiVincenzo and Reid are two knockdown shooters.

With Edwards, Randle, McDaniels and Gobert, the Wolves can beat teams domestically. At the same time, with Edwards, DiVincenzo, Reid and McDaniels, this team can overwhelm opponents with shooting.

Ultimately, Minnesota’s top six gives the team balanced and versatile scoring. The Timberwolves also rank sixth in passes per game; their mix of balanced scoring and ball movement is a clear recipe for success in a play-off setting.

As currently constructed, the Wolves are a dangerous playoff team. However, they could still make a trade at the deadline to add to their depth or even give them a true starting point guard. All of this is to say that the Wolves are primed for another deep playoff run.