Evaluating Timberwolves’ Ceiling With New Anthony Edwards, LaMelo Ball Duo

This offseason, the Minnesota Timberwolves made it a clear goal to upgrade their roster in hopes of getting over the hump and reaching the NBA Finals. Minnesota has been one of the premier playoff teams in the Western Conference, but one element they have been missing is a solid second option next to star player Anthony Edwards. 

To fix this issue, they traded away forwards Julius Randle and Naz Reid and acquired point guard LaMelo Ball from the Charlotte Hornets. Ball is one of the better passers in the NBA, and he can create opportunities for himself as well. 

The addition of Ball raises this team's ceiling in multiple aspects. One of the issues Anthony Edwards has been running into since his arrival in Minnesota has been the amount of attention and double teams he gets.

With LaMelo Ball, Edwards has more freedom to get to his spots on offense, as opposing backcourts will have to choose between Ball and Edwards to guard. Both players are very dynamic and can cause serious trouble for defenses for much of the game. 

LaMelo Ball also makes the Timberwolves better in transition. Ball is known to be one of the best guards in the NBA when it comes to making the right decision on fast-break opportunities, and he could be in a better situation to make those plays in Minnesota. 

One thing the Timberwolves pride themselves on is being a team that can defend but is also explosive. Anthony Edwards plays with that kind of intensity and can get downhill against nearly anyone. LaMelo Ball will find Anthony Edwards in transition multiple times this season, and they can be as explosive as they've ever been. 

Ball and Edwards also have a great relationship off the court. Both players came through the same draft class and are known to be high-energy players. In a season in which the Timberwolves have higher expectations, that will be important to the locker room. 

Minnesota is relatively young for a team that's looking to compete for a championship. They will need all the energy they can get from their leaders to make this season successful. 

Overall, the addition of LaMelo Ball makes sense because he fits the identity the Timberwolves have. If he and Anthony Edwards can coexist, this is a team that can win the NBA Championship. Other players will need to step up, but the Timberwolves could have their backcourt of the future in these two.